BMW E90 Catalytic Converter. Difficulty.

[Kasra]

Hi Guys,

So a couple days ago I asked what could be wrong with my BMW making a noise plus engine light going on. It was a bad Oxygen sensor.

However, the noise continued. Catalytic needs to be changed. Total $4000.

As of right now I hate BMW. but that is besides the point.

I was wondering how difficult is it to replace a catalytic converter. Is it literally a swap? (undo bolts, remove old, replace with new and attach it to the exhaust or is it more difficult and complicated.

This may sound like a foolish question but bare with me. If there such things as say refurbished catalytic converters? Or would buying one from the wreckers be ok? or not worth the risk incase it were bad or may not allow my car to pass emissions.

If i am able to replace it I guess the only issue is that I am very scared of going under a car on jack stands. Just never trust them. Even watching eric go under it makes me cringe.

Thanks for your help and advice guys.

Really appreciate any feedback.

Topic

[college man]

I know this is not a cat removal.but you may need to do this.

[Vic Sorlie]

There’s no such thing as a refurbished catalytic converter. Your only choices are OEM and Aftermarket replacements. The OEM piece will fit, aftermarket should but stories abound these pieces not fitting just right. Exhaust work is difficult, and you may have difficulty disconnecting the cat from the engine header. What’s your year and model of BMW?

[Kasra]

Thank you for the quick replies. The BMW is a 2006 323i. E90 model. I have been searching for the part but I can’t seem to find one. Even bav auto does not have one. Ya I was thinking that also. Space around that area is tight.

[Vic Sorlie]

Looks to me like OEM for parts. Expensive though:

http://www.penskeparts.com/DiagramsMain.aspx?vid=48828&rnd=03192010

Good luck. Let us know what you did.

[Author]

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