Hello,

I am new to the forum and need help. I have a 1998 Honda Civic DX Automatic (4 door) with 144,000 miles in Illinois.

My check engine light came on and I took it to my mechanic. He quoted me the following to fix it:
(1) CAT Converter (Part -$710) & (Labor - $128)
(2) Pre & post 02 Sensor (Part - $241) & (Labor - $23)

I feel like he is trying to screw me. He said they were rusted, and I think something about a manifold. I am an accountant and not a mechanic, so I am not that familiar with some of the things he was saying.

Can someone help guide me in the right direction?

I've also noticed an unusual rattling noise around the same time as the check engine light, is this related?

Is this the parts that I need?
http://www.1aauto.com/1A/CatalyticCo...tm_content=EEM

Thank you all for any info you can provide.

 

Post the specific CEL codes that are being thrown. If you don't have them, take the car to an auto parts store where they will pull the codes free of charge. Afterward, reset the ECU (see CEL sticky) to see whether the same codes return.

 

The reading from AutoZone was as follows:

OEM Number to Cross: P0420

a'a' - Catalyst system efficiency below threshold bank 1.

aa1. A/F ratio concern
aa2. Air leak near H02S (Heated oxygen sensor) Bank 1
aa3. Ignition system concern
aa4. Faulty catalytic converter

 

Only P0420, right?

Reset the ECU to see whether the same code returns. Basically, there's only two ways to throw P0420 ---> an exhaust leak or a bad catalytic converter. There's generally no need to replace the O2 sensors for this code.

The rattling noise would a good reason to look for an exhaust leak.

 

and sadly if it is the cat. unless you go aftermarket the part really is that much.

 

I went to autozone and got the same code. Did u ever figure out what it was? The car is driving fine and I dont really have the money for a cat. hopefully its an easy fix