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1999 Mercury Cougar

Question: Can't Afford The Repair for a Catalytic Converter, What Do I Do?

Question

Southern Belle, Antioch, CA, January 16, 2013, 14:59

Rookie

hi,

my car (1999 mercury cougar) won't pass emissions test due to one of the catalytic converters gone bad. I can't afford the California Required purchase from the manufacturer or dealer to buy one they are $1000.

I'm applying for the CAP program but that's only $500. I want to get a waiver but still have to invest in at least $450 on repairs to qualify. If it is already known that it needs a catalytic converter then that still makes me required for the rest of the amount for repair.

Is there anything I can do or does anyone have any advice for me please help! I paid for the registration but can't get my tags until this is done.

Thank You,
Southern Belle

2 Answers

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Answer #1

Prestige Auto Works (127 Answers) , Sacramento, CA - (916) 436-3251
Prestige Auto Works January 16, 2013, 16:01

Journeyman

If you need to replace a manifold catalytic converter you may be stuck purchasing it from the dealer.
If it is just a regular catalytic converter, there is typically aftermarket ones available for a fraction of the cost. The muffler shop replacing the catalytic converter will need to know some specifics about your vehicle to make sure there is a legal aftermarket catalytic converter meeting the CA requirements. It will matter if your car was originally a federally or California built car, you can find out by reading your emission or VIN label.

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Answer #2

your.mechanic January 16, 2013, 21:04

Master

you can check out the CAP program

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