Catalytic converters typically go unnoticed throughout their lifespans because they hide away on your vehicle’s underside and practically needs no maintenance.
Still, there might come a day when you need to replace yours, and you’ll have to choose between universal catalytic converters and direct-fit ones.
A direct-fit catalytic converter is designed specifically for your car brand and model. Just fit it onto your exhaust system and bolt it in place. On the other hand, a universal catalytic converter can fit many different cars, but installing it will be more challenging, and may even involve cutting and welding.
The universal catalytic converter vs direct fit discussion is straightforward and won’t take long to understand. This guide will show you the differences between both options and whether a universal-fit converter will work for your car.
What Is the Difference Between Direct Fit and Universal Catalytic Converter?
So, let’s suppose you need a new catalytic converter. Maybe the one you have isn’t working correctly anymore, or more likely, a determined thief stole your cat converter right where you parked your car.
It can cost you a bit, but there’s no question about it: You need to get a new one ASAP to avoid problems.
Now, you’ll have to compare universal catalytic converter vs OEM direct fit options to determine which ones are best.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Direct-Fit Catalytic Converter?
A direct-fit catalytic converter is tailored to perfectly fit the dimensions of your car brand and model.
In other words, you can install the direct-fit converter right away – not a single adjustment to the exhaust system or the mounting space. You only need to slide the cats-con into place and tighten the bolts accordingly.
You can get these catalytic converters as new or used OEM spare parts, but like any other OEM part, you can expect to pay top dollar for them.
Thankfully, aftermarket manufacturers also produce direct-fit catalytic converters. For example, you can get a Magnaflow catalytic converter built for your car model and use that instead. You’re likely going to save a bit of money by going with aftermarket parts.
As you might imagine, one of the primary benefits of a direct-fit catalytic converter is its ease of installation. You could install it yourself at home if you know how. Plus, you won’t need any heavy-duty equipment that only a mechanic would have.
Even if you get your mechanic to install it for you, they’ll get it done relatively quick and easy, which means lower labour costs for you to pay.
What Is a Universal-Fit Catalytic Converter?
Universal-fit catalytic converters are just as the name suggests. They’re universal, designed to fit a wide range of vehicles as closely as possible.
Unfortunately, exhaust systems and their underside, in general, can vary widely between different brands and models.
What I’m saying is that you can’t just bolt a universal-fit converter on and be done with it. Instead, you’ll likely have to perform some modifications like cutting, bending, and welding the pipes, so the converter fits on your car’s underside.
On top of that, some vehicles also require specific components related to the catalytic converter, which you’ll have to buy separately.
Some modifications will require heavy-duty tools that only a mechanic will have at their workshop. Plus, the entire process of installing a universal-fit catalytic converter involves a lot of time and effort.
What does that mean? Even though you might save some money buying a universal-fit catalytic converter, you will spend a lot more on the installation process.
How Long Will a Universal Catalytic Converter Last?
The lifespans of universal catalytic converters can differ significantly, and not all of them will last as long as an OEM replacement.
An OEM converter is meant to last the vehicle's entire lifespan, meaning you might squeeze 160,000 kilometres or more out of them.
You might still get lucky and find the best universal catalytic converters that will give you close to that, but they generally will have shorter lifespans.
The best way to find out how long your universal catalytic converter will last is to check the warranty that comes with it. The length of that warranty represents the manufacturer’s confidence in how long their product will last.
Is It OK to Use a Universal Catalytic Converter?
At this point, it’s understandable to ask, “Are universal converters good?”. They’re perhaps not as good as a direct-fit OEM cats-con, but they’re still a viable option if you need to replace the one you have.
Here are a few of the benefits that universal-fit catalytic converters have to offer:
#1 Universal Catalytic Converters Are Often Cheaper
First and foremost, the prices for universal-fit catalytic converters are typically lower than that of OEM replacements. That’s presumably because manufacturers can produce universal models in larger volumes than direct-fit ones, which means the buyer (you) will enjoy a smaller price tag.
#2 They’re Easier to Get
A universal-fit catalytic converter might be easier to get depending on your car brand, model, and where you live. In addition, some mechanics will likely have universal models in stock, so you won’t have to wait for them to order one that’s tailored for your vehicle model.
That’s especially true if your car is an older model and getting a direct-fit is no longer possible, simply because no one makes them anymore.
#3 They’re Compliant with Emissions Standards
If emissions standards concern you, don’t worry too much. These days, most (if not all) universal catalytic converters are compliant with universal standards and any applicable rules or regulations.
Plus, your local mechanic probably won’t stock anything that isn’t compliant since it would be bad for the business.
#4 They Fit Many Different Applications
As you’ve seen before, something like a Magnaflow catalytic converter can fit many different applications.
But what does that mean in plain English?
It means that even though the converter wasn’t made specifically for your car model, it will still do an excellent job as long as you install it correctly. In other words, you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues or anything like that.
How Much Is a Universal Catalytic Converter Worth as Scrap?
The scrap value of any catalytic converter depends on the precious metal content inside. And, since the market value of precious metals changes every day, it’s challenging to get an exact estimate for the value of your universal catalytic converter.
However, here are some essential pointers to remember:
- The more precious metals are inside the catalytic converter, the more it’s worth as scrap
- OEM converters tend to have higher scrap values because they have more precious metals inside
- Aftermarket catalytic converters are worth less because they have lower precious metal content
- The scrap value of your universal catalytic converter is NOT the same as what a recycler might pay you. After all, they need to make some money, too.
So, the best thing you can do is call catalytic converter recyclers and compare how much they’re willing to pay you. Some will have websites updating their price offerings daily, though you can just call them for a quotation as well.
If you’re in the market for a direct-fit or universal-fit catalytic converter, the best place you can shop online is CarpartAU. You can check for bargains on used parts in the Marketplace or submit a request through the Part Finder. Your request will go to suppliers nationwide who will come back to you with their best offers.
By Ray Hasbollah