Hey guys I have a work buddy who has a 1999 Acura TL and it's throwing a code related to the Cat. She keeps getting told that due to a 'sticker' thats on her hood that she HAS to buy an offical Acura replacement cat and that she can't use an aftermarket/universal cat. The cat from Acura costs something like $1000. This is counter to anything I've ever heard. Is this true?

 

I had the exact same problem last year. There is a new law in California which makes it very difficult for us to get any cat as a replacement. Unfortunately, I can't remember where I got my cat from. I think I got it from a local shop. But no, I did not buy and OEM cat. Call all your local muffler shops and tell them the vehicle and they will let you know if they have a California legal cat or not.