Catalytic Converter Recalls: A Guide for Vehicle Owners

Catalytic converter recalls have become increasingly common in recent years, affecting millions of vehicles across major automotive brands worldwide. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at catalytic converter recalls, including causes, impacts, and how car owners can respond.

Important Headings

A catalytic converter is a key emissions control device installed on most gasoline-powered vehicles produced after 1975. It reduces emissions’ toxicity by triggering chemical reactions to convert harmful compounds into less harmful ones.

Catalytic converters contain precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which are catalysts in these chemical reactions. While catalytic converters normally last over 100,000 miles, failures can still occur, leading to recalls.

Key Takeaways Catalytic Converter Recalls

Catalytic converter recalls are issued when emissions control systems fail to meet regulations. Millions of vehicles have been affected.
Recalls occur due to catalyst degradation, overheating damage, contamination, design flaws, and leaded fuel use.
Recalled converters increase emissions, reduce performance, add repair costs, and cause inspection failures.
Mail, dealers, databases, and publications notify owners of recalls. Repairs should be scheduled promptly.
Continue driving cautiously based on recall instructions. Have symptoms checked immediately. Removal yourself risks fines.
Compliance is mandatory for automakers. Recalls are performed free of charge to vehicle owners.
Replacements under recall don’t extend the emissions warranty. Use OEM quality parts to avoid issues.
Unrepaired recalled vehicles face registration suspension, penalties, buybacks, and lawsuits to compel fixes.
Recycling recalled converters recovers precious metals. Don’t resell them; only dispose of them properly.
Increased EV use avoids converter recalls entirely through zero-emissions electric motors replacing complex engines.

What is a Catalytic Converter Recall?

A catalytic converter recall occurs when a vehicle manufacturer or regulatory body determines that a group of vehicles has defective or underperforming catalytic converters that need replacement. This often affects hundreds of thousands of car owners.

Read More: California Emissions Warranty: Guide for Vehicle Owners

Automakers may initiate catalytic converter recalls voluntarily or by order of emissions regulating bodies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States. Manufacturers can face heavy penalties for not complying with recall orders.

Why Are Catalytic Converters Recalled?

There are several common reasons why catalytic converters are recalled:

Catalyst Degradation: The precious metal catalysts can break down over time, reducing conversion efficiency. This causes excess emissions.
Thermal Damage: Overheating can melt the ceramic honeycomb structure inside the converter. Engine misfire allows unburned fuel to reach the converter, causing it to overheat.
Contamination: Oil, coolant, or other chemicals can coat the catalysts, inhibiting their function. This contamination occurs from engine leaks.
Design Flaws: Improperly designed converters fail to achieve required emissions reductions. Manufacturing defects also lead to early failure.
Use of Leaded Fuel: Leaded gasoline damages the catalyst material and oxygen sensor that monitors the converter function.
Detaching Issues: Some converters were improperly welded, causing detachment from the exhaust and release of emissions.

Read More: Catalytic Converter Spacers – Types, Benefits and Troubleshooting

Top Catalytic Converter Recall Models

Some models have been affected by converter recalls more than others:

Ford Trucks: Ford has issued multiple recalls for catalytic converters on models like the F-150, Super Duty, and Expedition.
Toyota Prius: The second generation Prius was recalled in 2014 for cats failing before the 8 year/80,000 mile federal requirement.
Jeep Grand Cherokees: Recalls were issued for 1999-2004 models due to the risk of converter detachment.
Subaru Outback and Legacy: Multiple recalls occurred for 1996-2004 models for insufficient catalyst warming.
Honda CR-V: Over 500,000 CR-Vs were recalled in 2019 for faulty calibration of the catalytic converter software.

Catalytic Converter Recalls by Car Maker

In addition to the major industry-wide catalytic converter recalls covered earlier, various car makers have also issued model-specific recalls related to converter issues over the years. Some of the most prominent include:

Read More: Catalytic Converter Gaskets – Materials, Maintenance & Repair

Subaru Recall

Over 1.3 million vehicles were recalled in 2020 for faulty engine control modules that could lead to catalytic converter failure. Impacted models included Impreza, Legacy, Outback, and Forester vehicles. Earlier recalls were also issued for 1996-2004 Subaru models related to insufficient converter warmup during cold starts.

FCA (Chrysler) Recall

Chrysler has issued recalls for catalytic converters on models like the 200, Jeep Patriot, Renegade, and Cherokee. The converters were prone to premature failure before the federal emissions warranty period expired. Chrysler also had recalls for vehicles allowing oil into the exhaust stream, which contaminated and damaged the catalytic converters.

Jeep Recall

Besides the Cherokee issues, Jeep had major recalls in 1999-2004 Grand Cherokee models for the converter detaching from the exhaust pipe prematurely. The welds attaching the converter were inadequate. Jeep later added protective metal plates to improve mounting.

Mopar Recall

Dodge Journey and Ram ProMaster vehicles have been part of FCA emissions recalls. Journey recalls involved software calibration, leading filters, and catalytic converters to get overloaded with particulates when driving short distances.

Read More: Catalytic Converter Warranty: Owners’ Peace of Mind

GM Recall

Chevrolet Cobalt and HHR vehicles had 2007 recalls where the catalytic converter could overheat and cause melting or fires. The recall required a software upgrade and modified exhaust to redirect heat from the converter unit.

These examples demonstrate that even within the same parent automaker, certain vehicle models are more susceptible to catalytic converter defects and recalls based on their emissions system design, engine tuning, operating conditions, and susceptibility to damage.

Careful selection and maintenance of models with lower recall rates can help consumers avoid converter issues. Manufacturers continually refine designs and diagnostics to reduce warranty costs and reputational damage from repeat recalls.

Types of Catalytic Converter Recalls

Catalytic converter recalls may be classified based on the scope and severity:

Partial Catalytic Converter Recall: Only one section of the multi-stage catalytic converter needs replacement.
Full Catalytic Converter Recall: The entire converter assembly has to be replaced.
Limited Catalytic Converter Recall: A recall affecting certain production batches or geographic regions.
Urgent Recall: The manufacturer emphasizes immediate action to get recalled converters fixed.
Voluntary Recall: The automaker initiated A proactive recall before regulatory coercion.

Impact of Faulty Catalytic Converters

Malfunctioning catalytic converters can have significant consequences:

Increased Emissions: Lack of emission conversion releases harmful pollutants like hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide.
Environmental Impact: Uncontrolled emissions contribute to smog, acid rain, and climate change. Air pollution also causes respiratory illnesses.
Lost Performance: Converter failure reduces engine efficiency and fuel economy. Owners may observe decreased acceleration and reduced gas mileage.
Increased Repair Costs: Diagnosis and replacement of the catalytic converter can cost $1,000 to $3,000. The oxygen sensor may also need replacement.
Failed Inspections: Vehicles may not pass the annual emissions testing states require. Vehicle registration may be suspended as a result.

How Car Owners Are Notified about Catalytic Converter Recalls

There is an established process for notifying car owners about recalls:

Manufacturer Notification: Owners of affected vehicles are notified directly by first-class mail within 60 days of a recall announcement.
Recall Databases: The US and Transport Canada NHTSA lists all recalls online. Owners can check for recalls by VIN.
Dealer Notification: Dealers are informed of recalls and customer vehicles affected. They contact customers when vehicles are brought in for service.
Media Publications: Recalls are published through consumer channels and media outlets. However, owners should not rely solely on media for recall notifications.
Vehicle Stickers: For older or hard-to-reach customers, recall notification stickers may be affixed to vehicles to alert owners.

Getting a Recalled Catalytic Converter Fixed

Here are the steps owners should take to address a recalled catalytic converter:

Confirm the Recall: Check your VIN against manufacturer or NHTSA data to confirm the converter recall applies to your vehicle.
Contact the Dealer: Call your dealership service department and schedule an appointment to have the recall repair completed.
Bring a Notification Letter: Present your recall notification letter at the dealership as proof of eligibility for the free converter replacement.
Verify Repair Completion: The dealer will provide documentation that the recall repair was performed. Keep this for your records.
Consider Reimbursement: If you previously paid for converter repairs related to the recall, you may be eligible for reimbursement from the automaker. Submit the required documentation.

Are Vehicles Safe to Drive with a Recalled Catalytic Converter?

A recalled catalytic converter means emissions are higher than acceptable standards. However, some considerations on whether the vehicle can be safely driven include:

Degree of Failure: Partial converter degradation may allow temporary safe driving. But full malfunction likely requires immediate repair.
Duration of Use: Short trips may be acceptable, but long drives could overheat a failing converter. Limit driving distance until the recall is addressed.
Symptoms: Listen for abnormal sounds indicating disintegration. If any symptoms like rough idle or smell of chemicals, check out immediately.
Emissions Laws: In regions with strict smog check requirements, vehicles with faulty converters may not pass inspections and face registration cancellation.
Manufacturer Guidance: The recall notice should advise owners on precautions for continued driving based on the specific defect. Adhere to the automaker’s guidance.

Can Drivers Remove Recalled Converters Themselves?

It is never advisable for drivers to remove a recalled catalytic converter themselves. Federal law prohibits tampering with emissions control devices on road-going vehicles. Besides legal violations, dangers include:

Improper Removal: The converter is integrated with the exhaust system. Incorrect removal risks damage to components or injury from burns or cuts.
Voiding Warranty: Independent repair or removal can void manufacturer warranty coverage on emissions systems.
Failed Testing: Vehicles without catalytic converters cannot pass mandatory emissions testing. Registration and usage will be prohibited.
Fines and Penalties: Enforcement agents can impose steep fines, confiscate registration, or impound the vehicle for tampering with emissions devices.
Safety Hazards: Removing the converter also takes away its heat shielding. This can ignite flammable materials under the car.

Recalls are Mandatory for Automakers

Catalytic converter recalls are not optional for automotive manufacturers:

Under the Clean Air Act, automakers are legally required to fix any vehicle that does not comply with EPA emissions regulations throughout its useful life.
Failure to recall and remedy non-compliant vehicles can lead to penalties of up to $44,539 per violation issued by the EPA.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) enforces recall regulations impacting emissions. They can fine automakers up to $21,000 for each unrepaired recalled vehicle.
Class action lawsuits representing affected consumers can also compel reluctant manufacturers to fulfill recall responsibilities.
Bad publicity and eroded consumer trust from shirking recalls can also damage carmakers.

Do Recalls Extend Emissions Warranty?

Replacing a faulty converter under recall does not automatically extend the emissions system warranty:

The catalytic converter is covered under an emissions warranty, which lasts 8 years or 80,000 miles federally.
Suppose an original converter exceeded the time or mileage warranty limit at the recall time. In that case, the replacement converter only gets the remaining warranty period.
Automakers may offer extended converter warranties on some models, so owners should check documentation for coverage details.
Aftermarket and remanufactured converters often carry 3-year/50,000-mile warranties. However, non-OEM parts cannot extend emissions warranty coverage beyond the original federal requirements of 8 years/80,000 miles.

Reporting Safety Issues with Recalled Vehicles

If owners feel a recalled vehicle poses an immediate danger, they can report it to help spur action:

The NHTSA accepts safety-related complaints on its website to identify critical defects needing urgent remedy.
Transport Canada has an online Defect Complaints Form for reporting hazardous defects requiring priority recalls.
Consumer protection organizations like the Center for Auto Safety also accept information on potentially dangerous recalls that are not being addressed promptly.
Documentation like repair invoices showing the unsafe defect should be included. Photos, videos, or personal accounts of any resulting damage or injury also help support the severity of the issue.
Though regulators try to protect confidentiality, automaker retaliation is prohibited against submitting safety reports.

How are Catalytic Converter Recalls Enforced?

Regulators have monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to ensure recall compliance:

NHTSA and EPA auditors inspect automaker records to confirm enough parts, personnel, and procedures are allocated to fulfill recall remedies.
Regulators can compel manufacturers to send follow-up notifications to owners of still unrepaired vehicles.
Daily fines can be imposed on automakers lagging in recall repairs. Expanding recalls may be ordered if the existing one needs to be improved.
Legal action can ban sales and force vehicle buybacks if an automaker deliberately fails to recall non-compliant vehicles.
Mandatory alternative dispute resolution programs must be offered to consumers stuck with an unfixed recalled vehicle after multiple repair attempts.

Recalls – No Cost to the Owner

An important benefit of recalls for car owners is that the remedy is provided free of charge:

Federal law requires automakers to pay all parts, labor, and diagnostic fees to correct defective or non-compliant components.
For newer recalls, owners must schedule service at the dealership per the instructions. Repair costs are billed to the manufacturer.
If a customer paid for previous repairs related to the defect, they can request reimbursement from the automaker by submitting documentation.
Parts availability may lead to repair delays, but the automaker must provide loaner vehicles to owners during waits exceeding 30 days.
Automakers may offer incentives like extended warranties, discount coupons, or trade-in bonuses to encourage quick response to recalls.

Impact of Faulty Catalytic Converters on the Environment

Catalytic converters play a crucial role in limiting the environmental impact of automobiles. But malfunctioning converters can increase pollution:

Hydrocarbon and nitrogen oxide emissions contribute to smog formation and acid rain deposition. Carbon monoxide is also toxic.
Greenhouse gases released by vehicles, including unconverted methane, accumulate and cause climate change. Reduced fuel economy in faulty converters also increases CO2.
Air pollution particulate matter causes respiratory illness and millions of premature deaths worldwide, according to WHO.
The environmental impact depends on the number of affected vehicles and the degree of converter failure. Full degradation makes vehicles up to 100 times more polluting.
Uncontrolled emissions harm shared community resources like air and water. This demonstrates the need for proper recall execution.

Do Catalytic Converters Get Stolen from Recalled Vehicles?

There are incidences of thieves targeting recalled vehicles to steal catalytic converters:

Thieves steal converters for the precious metals they contain, which become more accessible when the surrounding exhaust is removed for recall replacement.
Thieves especially target hybrid models, as their converters use higher concentrations of precious metals to handle reduced engine emissions.
Authorities have traced stolen catalytic converters from recalled vehicles to black market scrapyards. Thefts increase when precious metal prices rise.
Automakers have introduced anti-theft devices like welding protective plates or cages over the converter to deter thieves after some recalls.
Authorities recommend parking recalled vehicles in locked garages until the converter can be replaced at the dealership. Security camera systems can also help catch catalytic converter thieves.

What Should Consumers Do with Defective Recalled Converters?

Once replaced under recall, the defective converters need proper handling by consumers:

In the US, the EPA makes recalled converters the responsibility of the automaker. Dealerships handle their disposal.
Consumers still possessing recalled converters should recycle them to recover precious metals. Scrap yards pay above-average rates for intact automotive converters.
Some charities accept donated recalled converters and then channel funds raised from their recycling toward community initiatives.
Defective converters should never be sold second-hand for reinstallation in other vehicles. This spreads the problematic emissions issue.
Discarding converters irresponsibly or improperly can risk heavy fines for violating hazardous materials regulations.

Decreased Lifespans of Emissions Components

Though catalytic converters are designed to operate for a vehicle’s useful life, recalls indicate shorter lifespans:

Regulations increased the required durability of converters to 10 years/100,000 miles in 2021 models. But many recalled converters still fail prematurely.
Factors like improved engine controls and diagnostics allow problems to be detected earlier. This leads to more recalls, though emissions may still be lower than older vehicles.
Design flaws are uncovered over time as converters age. Vibration, temperature cycling, and corrosion slowly damage components.
Vehicle use patterns like extended idling and stop-and-go driving can accelerate converter and oxygen sensor deterioration.
Class action lawsuits over early converter failures often cite false durability claims in marketing. Most claims are settled out of court.

Can I Sell a Recalled Vehicle?

Vehicles with open catalytic converter recalls can still be sold or traded privately or to dealers:

Sellers must disclose known recalls when completing the vehicle title transfer. Failure to disclose can risk fines or civil lawsuits from buyers.
Dealers must repair any open recalls on vehicles taken as trade-ins before resale. They use manufacturer reimbursement programs for recall repairs.
When selling privately, factor in the cost to the buyer of getting outstanding recalls fixed when advertising the price for a vehicle.
For vehicles with multiple recalls or repeat failures, buyers may ask for lower prices to account for perceptions of reduced reliability.
Selling a vehicle without addressing a major recall like a catalytic converter may raise legal and ethical concerns. Many sellers choose to complete repairs first.

Finding an Auto Repair Shop to Fix a Recalled Converter

Locating a quality repair shop to replace a recalled converter requires some research:

Dealerships use OEM parts and often have the most expertise in fixing recalls. However, independent shops may offer lower labor rates.
Look for shops certified by ASE’s National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence with an “A” rating for high-quality standards.
Confirm shops have experience servicing your vehicle model and doing catalytic converter replacements.
Ask about using OEM or remanufactured catalytic converters. Aftermarket cats may not integrate properly or last as long.
Inquire about warranties for both parts and labor. At least a 2-year warranty on aftermarket converters is recommended.

Recalled Cats – Evidence Tampering Occurred?

Federal law prohibits the removal of a catalytic converter; therefore, the presence of an aftermarket converter may indicate tampering.

Emissions testing scans can detect non-OE converters lacking compatible engine control software. This triggers failed tests.
Physical inspections check for welded-on tags and heat shields unique to the factory and emissions-legal aftermarket catalytic converters.
Automaker dealerships often only allow warranty coverage if factory converters were already replaced without authorization.
Enforcement officers can mark and photograph catalytic converters to document changes between inspections.
Anti-theft etching on factory converters also proves that catalytic converters were unlawfully switched if missing.

Do Recalls Reduce the Resale Value?

Open catalytic converter recalls can negatively impact the resale value of used vehicles:

Buyers may deduct $1,000 or more from book value, knowing they’ll soon have to pay for emissions system repairs and retesting.
Trade-in offers are similarly reduced based on anticipated labor and parts costs to address outstanding recalls before resale.
Certain brands and models with higher rates of recalls for expensive components like catalytic converters suffer greater resale value loss compared to more reliable models.
If recall repairs also mask underlying durability issues that could require recurring repairs, this diminishes the value.
However, some minor recalls without noticeable effects may have a negligible impact on vehicle resale prices. Disclosing known recalls is still required.

Can I Take My Car Off-Road with a Recalled Converter?

Driving a vehicle off-road with a recalled catalytic converter violates emissions laws:

All vehicles driven on public roadways must be emissions-compliant, including those used for off-road recreation. Emissions systems cannot be legally modified or removed while street-legal.
Tampering with or disabling the catalytic converter, even for off-road use, still risks significant fines and jail time in some regions.
Racing strictly within enclosed private tracks provides a limited exception for converter removal as the vehicle is no longer street-legal. However, one must reinstall the recalled converter before transporting it on a trailer or public road.
Manufacturers stress that even if tracked vehicles are raced, they must still adhere to all recall repairs. Racing does not exempt street-legal vehicles from recall requirements.
Most state off-road recreation agencies prohibit using vehicles lacking emissions control devices in environmentally sensitive off-road areas. Vehicles must comply with all regulations.

Do Performance Mods Impact Recall Repairs?

Aftermarket modifications can complicate fixing vehicles recalled for catalytic converters:

Engine modifications increasing power output place greater stress on emissions components. Recalled converters may fail again unless durability is improved in tuning.
Oversized turbochargers, altered fuel mapping, and disabled misfire monitoring allow higher exhaust temperatures that can melt catalysts.
ECU tuning tricks, like simulating readiness monitors, attempt to hide non-compliant emissions, but authorities may detect them. Cars can flunk recall-related testing.
Removing mufflers or installing header changes required back pressure. This can reduce catalytic converter effectiveness and cause retest failures after recalls.
Warranty coverage on related components like oxygen sensors or EGR valves may be denied due to ECU tuning. Owners pay recall-related costs themselves.

Recalls Support Case for Electric Vehicle Adoption

Costly and frequent catalytic converter recalls on conventional vehicles highlight the benefits of electric cars:

Pure electric vehicles have no internal combustion emissions. This eliminates the need for catalytic converters and related recalls.
Though initial purchase costs are higher, EVs avoid any future expenses for emissions repairs and testing.
EVs produce far fewer greenhouse gas emissions over their lifespan. This supports the environmental goals behind catalytic converter requirements.
Advanced battery and motor technology make EVs low maintenance and highly durable compared to the complexity of internal combustion engines.
Government subsidies, falling EV costs, and rising gas prices make EVs more affordable options to avoid converter recall issues of older vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions on Catalytic Converter Recalls

How Do I Know If My Car Has a Catalytic Converter Recall?

Check your VIN against databases your automaker and NHTSA provided to see any outstanding recalls. Dealers can also check when you bring your car in.

Is It Safe to Drive With a Recalled Catalytic Converter?

It depends on the extent of the failure. Follow the automaker’s instructions, limit driving, and address symptoms immediately. Emissions testing may be prohibited.

Do I Have to Pay for a Catalytic Converter Recall Repair?

Federal law requires the automaker to cover all parts, labor, and diagnostic costs related to fixing a recalled emissions component.

Can I Remove the Catalytic Converter If It’s Been Recalled?

No, tampering with emissions control devices on road-going vehicles is illegal. Fines, registration cancellations, and failed inspections will result.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Recalled Converter Replaced?

Repair times vary depending on parts availability. If delays exceed 30 days, the automaker must provide a loaner vehicle.

Will a Catalytic Converter Recall Reduce My Car’s Trade-in Value?

Open recalls lower value, so buyers deduct costs to fix issues. Complete the recall before selling for maximum value.

Can I Get a Refund If I Already Paid to Replace a Recalled Converter?

Yes, submit your previous repair invoices to the automaker to reimburse costs related to the recall.

Do Performance Modifications Void Emission System Recalls?

Modifying emissions-related components can disqualify warranty coverage and cause recall-related repairs to fail testing.

Are Catalytic Converter Thefts More Common After Recalls?

Unfortunately, yes. Thieves target accessible converters from recalled vehicles. Take security precautions.

How Do I Find a Reliable Repair Shop to Fix a Recalled Converter?

Look for ASE-certified shops experienced with your vehicle model. Confirm they use OEM parts.

Can I Register My Car If the Previous Owner Didn’t Fix the Recall?

No, vehicles must pass emissions inspections before registration. Unfixed recalls will cause a failed test.

Do I Have to Disclose Open Catalytic Converter Recalls When Selling My Vehicle?

You must inform buyers of any outstanding recalls during the title transfer process.

Conclusion on Catalytic Converter Recalls

Catalytic converter recalls affect millions of vehicle owners when emissions control systems fail. However, understanding the causes, processes, and requirements of recalls allows consumers to address any vehicles impacted promptly. Strict regulations compel automakers to pay for replacing faulty converters that exceed allowable tailpipe emissions.

While recalls cause temporary inconvenience, maintaining pollution-control systems helps limit the environmental impact of vehicles and avoid disruptive breakdowns. Addressing recalls also protects long-term vehicle value.

Increased adoption of electric cars provides a permanent solution to avoiding catalytic converter defects, and remediation recalls altogether through their zero-emission operation.