What kind of catalytic converter?

[babur]

Hi there,

I have a 2001 Boxster w/ 81,000 miles. I recently had a p0430 code. Ouch:-((( I am out of warranty.

I changed the MAF sensor last week and reset the code and so far no CEL.

But, I know that the code might come back and I may need to get a new catalytic converter. I don't know anything about cats. So what would you recommend I do? When I looked for a new one online, I get huge variances in price (direct fit - don't even know what that means to Fabspeed $$$$$).

What kind of cheap options do I have? Someone recommended to take it to an exhaust shop for welding!!! I know that is a crazy idea. So which brands should I be looking at? Or can it be anything other than a cat converter (such as a bad O2 sensor?)

My birthday is coming up in 2 months and if that's the cats, I have to fix it.

Thanks

Bob

[Loren]

:welcome:

P0430 TWC Conversion, Bank 2 – Above Limit

Possible causes:

– Catalytic converter

The MAF likely had nothing to do with this fault.

If you clear the code and it continues to come back then you likely do have a bad cat.

Depending on where you live and whether they have a smog inspection requirement you will want to be careful that you use a cat that will pass those inspections. Some aftermarket cats are sold for racing purposes and will not pass smog tests.

Of course you might find a used on (from the same engine/year) and that could be a less expensive route.

[mikefocke]

Since this code is derived by a difference reading between the O2 sensors, it can also be a sensor problem. Thought that is unusual with just the single code. Are you sure there aren't multiple codes?

If the problem returns, swap sensors from side to side and see if the problem follows the sensor. If it does...then you have to be suspicious of the sensor giving a false reading. If it doesn't, then you have a cat problem.

You don't have a oil-saturated air filter by any chance?

Had your AOS replaced? What does the throttle body look like?

The reason I ask is if you are somehow letting too much oil through the engine it may be getting through and fouling the cat.

[babur]

I'll keep my fingers crossed! I just changed the air filter along with the MAF sensor last week and the filter seemed OK. And I am certain that there is no other code...

I don't know what an AOS is... sorry.

If it's indeed a cat problem, what brands should I be looking at?

Thanks

Bob