Catalytic converter or O2

[Bgermany]

All your experiences and feedback would be much appreciated on this.

I took my 2002 4runner in to get new plugs, wires, and have the o2 sensors replaced as I had a CEL. They went ahead and pulled the codes (for $98), and phoned me saying both cats need replacing for $2800 (this is my local toyota dealership). The vehicle has 188K miles and is due inspection next month in texas.

Is there a good or better than others aftermarket cat? I was planning on selling this vehicle in the next year and getting a newer runner or Tacoma. So spending this amount of money is absurd to say the least.

Also if you have any tips on checking o2 sensors I'm all ears as I think the dealership may have been trying to sell me on cats and spending a small fortune on vehicle that has a lot miles.

Thanks again. I've got many tips in the past about avoiding the pink milkshake from this forum. And general maintenance. The knowledge is great!

 

[ironic]

You can try the anti spark plug fouler trick on the o2 sensors behind the cats to see if that will remove the cel.. You can remove the cats and run the foulers and pass the inspection still in texas.. I've done it on 2 of my is300s and my sisters rsx that did not have cats and still passed inspection. Google "anti fouler o2 trick" shouldn't cost more that 6 bucks and a couple hours of your time..

 

[ironic]

Edit: the part is called a spark plug non fouler but google it and you'll find endless articles about the trick

 

[PitbullRescuer]

One of my 4Runners (with dual cats) was giving me the code. A $24 bottle of Mr. Gasket CataClean did the trick. Apparently the code will show up if the cat is working at 96% or less efficiency if you can believe that. (Thanks Ralph Nader)