Catalytic Converter for 98 540i 6sp

[Montana]

Anyone know where I can find a good (and cheap) catalytic converter? Aftermarket? One was changed by previous owner under warranty. The other is rattling and near breakup. I have 92k miles running fine otherwise. THanks.

 

[epj3]

Do not go with aftermarket unless you can find one that is like oem.

Why are you going through cat's so quick? Mine is 16 years old and passed PA's emissions... it might be your dinan chip.

www.bavauto.com is where I would buy it if i were you.

 

[Montana]

Thanks I'll check it out. My suspicion is that the car has been in FL it's whole life running hotter than most. The radiator, water pump have been replaced in the past 2 years also. I assume most is due to the climate and some to the chip causing hot running.

 

[wood_e]

I would check your engine trouble codes. Even if your check engine light isn't on there can still be stored codes in the computer. I would think your car is running slightly rich in order to have your cats wear out so quickly. I would also check the dinan chip to make sure the car isn't injecting too much fuel into the cylinders

 

[Montana]

Thanks SHO. When I have the Cat replaced, I'll have the mechanic check on the codes etc..also FYI I check many sources for OEM Cats and found the best price at www.cheapexhaust.com. The Cat for one side is $825, no tax, free shipping. For the record, www.bavauto.com was $895 + $29 shipping.

 

[Montana]

One more thing...EPJ3, you are right about sticking with OEM. Everyone I talked to said the aftermarket stuff (costing about $315 each) is CRAP in all ways. There are even some listed on Ebay as OEM but they are NOT! Expect to pay around $850 on average. If it is in the $300-$400 range it is not OEM no matter what they say.

Does your 325 have 1 cat or 2? I wonder if that or engine size makes difference too.