Choosing the right catalytic converter replacement can be confusing. This guide clarifies the different emissions regulations and helps you select the correct Oem Grade Obdii catalytic converter for your vehicle.
Understanding Emissions Regulations and Catalytic Converter Grades
Emissions regulations vary by state, impacting your catalytic converter choice. Two primary standards exist: Federal/EPA and California/CARB. Your vehicle’s registration state determines the applicable regulation, regardless of where it was purchased.
Most states follow EPA regulations. MagnaFlow offers three catalytic converter grades for these states:
- OEM Grade: Meets requirements for OBDII (1996 and newer) vehicles with California or Federal/EPA emissions systems registered outside California, Colorado, and New York. These converters utilize the necessary precious metals for optimal performance and emissions control. This is the ideal choice for vehicles requiring OEM grade OBDII compliance.
- HM Grade: Compliant with OBDII vehicles under Federal/EPA emissions systems. Can be used on specific California emissions vehicles registered outside California, Colorado, and New York where an OEM converter isn’t available.
- Standard Grade: Designed for pre-OBDII vehicles (manufactured before 1996).
For vehicles registered outside California, Colorado, and New York, choose an OEM grade converter if available for California-compliant vehicles. Either OEM or HM grade is suitable for EPA-regulated vehicles. These converters are EPA/Federal compliant and cannot be sold in California, Colorado, or New York.
Identifying Your Vehicle’s Emissions Certification
For OBDII vehicles (1996 or newer), locate the Vehicle Emissions Control Information (VECI) tag under the hood, on the suspension tower, or radiator shroud. The VECI tag specifies whether your vehicle conforms to California or EPA regulations.
Pre-OBDII vehicles (1995 or older) don’t require this step. You can find the correct Standard grade converter using the year, make, model, and engine information.
Using MagnaFlow’s Shop by Vehicle Tool
MagnaFlow.com simplifies finding the right catalytic converter. Use the Shop by Vehicle feature, inputting your vehicle’s year, make, model, sub-model, engine, and registration state. You might need to provide additional vehicle information. The website will then display compatible catalytic converter options.
California, Colorado, and New York Regulations
California, Colorado, and New York adhere to stricter CARB standards. Vehicles registered in these states require CARB-compliant catalytic converters.
Locate the VECI tag and find the Engine Family Number (EFN) to ensure you select the correct converter. The EFN identifies your engine’s emissions certification. Use MagnaFlow’s Shop by Vehicle tool, select your state and EFN to view compatible options. Pre-OBDII vehicles can use basic vehicle information to find the right California Pre-OBDII converter.
Maine Regulations
Maine requires either CARB or EPA-compliant converters. Model year 2001 and newer vehicles with California emissions systems need CARB-compliant converters. For older vehicles (2000 and older) with California emissions, an OEM grade converter is recommended, though an HM grade may suffice if an OEM part isn’t available. HM grade is recommended for OBDII vehicles with Federal emissions. Standard grade converters suit pre-OBDII vehicles.
Finding the Right Catalytic Converter for Your Vehicle
For OBDII vehicles in Maine, locate the VECI tag to determine if you need a California or Federal EPA part. The VECI also contains the EFN, necessary for California emissions vehicles from 2001 onward. Use MagnaFlow’s Shop by Vehicle tool to find the right converter by inputting your vehicle information and state.
Choosing the correct catalytic converter ensures your vehicle meets emissions standards and operates efficiently. Using this guide and MagnaFlow’s resources, you can confidently select the right replacement, including those requiring OEM grade OBDII specifications.
