My check engine light comes on intermittently. My Mechani...


My check engine light comes on intermittently. My Mechanics says I need a new [catalytic converter](/topics-catalytic-converter-jeep/) and it will cost $1500. Is that reasonable? Mechanic's Assistant: Does the light stay o...

My check engine light comes on intermittently. My Mechanics says I need a new [catalytic converter](/topics-catalytic-converter-jeep/) and it will cost $1500. Is that reasonable? Mechanic's Assistant: Does the light stay on, or does it blink? Stays on for awhie then goes off. No particular times Mechanic's Assistant: What is the make/model/year of your car? 2007 Jeep Commander Mechanic's Assistant: Are you fixing your Commander yourself? What have you tried so far? Got the code causing the error. mechanic says i need a new catalytic converter

Automotive Expert
Hi! Welcome to JustAnswer. Thank you for contacting us for assistance with your vehicle. I'm Ron. I will be happy to assist you with your question. May I ask to whom I have the pleasure of speaking with today?
Automotive Expert
Hi Tony. Nice to see you today! I'm sorry to hear you are having this problem. I know this can be frustrating. Tony, may I have the engine size in your Jeep?

v6
Automotive Expert
Perfect. Thank-you, Tony. Please give me one moment to type out some information for you. Sit tight one minute... I'll be right back! Thanks for holding, Tony. When replacing a converter, you will need a replacement converter that meets specs. Those "universal" or "discount" converters sold at some after market parts stores do not meet specs, and the Check Engine Light will usually return shortly after replacement. So, with that said, a good quality, aftermarket converter will sell for around $800-$900. The Labor Time Guide calls for 2.1 hours to complete the job. Labor rates vary from shop to shop, so what you pay for labor will effect the bot\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*ne. For a job of this type, a "fair" labor rate can be anywhere from $85-$125 per hour. So the estimate of $1500 is just a bit on the high side.

I think I actually mis typed. the estimate was $1300.
Automotive Expert
Still a bit on the high side, but definitely close.

should that solve the problem? should I expect a warrantee?
Automotive Expert
Is the converter being replaced due to a check engine light with the code P0420 or P0430?

How can I tell if the converter installed is "Spec" I don't know the code#'s
Automotive Expert
If the check engine light is on and the p-codes are either P0420 or P0430, yes, a new converter will solve this issue. A converter meets specs if it is a "direct fit" (no cutting/welding) and usually has a guarantee either on the box or inside the box. Most better quality converters have a 1-year warranty.

Thank you for your help! I apprciate it!
Automotive Expert
You're welcome, Tony! Glad I could be of some help today! I hope everything works out well for you! Have a great weekend! Thank you for choosing Just Answer for your questions!

What others are asking

Battery draining.
Your Saturn does not have any direct relation between the door locks and the anti-theft system from the factory. If you are having issues with both of these systems in the vehicle simultaneously and the battery is draining then it...
How do I tilt the sunroof?
The sunroof can be tilted to bring extra fresh air into the vehicle. To open the sunroof tilt, push the Sunroof button (located on the ceiling) upwards. To close the sunroof tilt, pull the button downwards.
How do I eject a CD?
To eject a CD, simply press the Eject button next to the CD slot. The CD will partially eject, at which point you can manually remove it.
Air bag warning light flashes
Hello. When the airbag system warning light flashes and stays on, it means that an airbag system component has failed. When this happens the airbag system will become disabled and the airbags will not deploy if the car is in...
Squeaking/Whale like noise
This type of a noise is hard to place given the fact that it is random, but I would suggest checking to be sure your power steering pump (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/power-steering-pump-replacement) has enough fluid in it as this could cause a whining...
P0011 engine light came on and went off a couple days later. Should I still go to shop and get it checked?
A P0011 (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0011-obd-ii-trouble-code-camshaft-position-a-timing-over-advanced-or-system-performance-bank-1-by-jay-safford) code indicates that the intake camshaft is consistently running more advanced timing than the engine computer has commanded. Usually, you should also notice a rough-running condition, poor fuel economy, emissions problems, hard starting and hesitation along with...
I got a 1999 Ford Windstar LX. It is jerking when I go over 45 or 50.
Hi there. Either the EGR - Exhaust Gas Recirculation - has been plugged up or the MAF - Mass Air Flow - sensor is dirty or damaged. Try removing the vacuum line to the EGR and test driving the vehicle...
Oil was accidentally over filled.
Hi there. Wen the engine was overfilled by an additional quart of engine oil, then the engine was trying to lock up as the crankcase pressure was too high and the pistons are pressing against the oil. I recommend draining...
05 XL-7 CAN FRONT CRANK SEAL BE REPLACED WITHOUT REMOVING TIMING COVER?
The seal has to be accessible (that is visible and there is enough room to pry it out) on removal and, as well, there has to be enough space to press it back in using an appropriate seal installation tool....