Catalytic converter recommendations needed

[jeff_j1701]

Hey all!

My 2007 Vibe needs a new front catalytic converter, as mine has a hole in it. Apparently Vibes are known for that, but I don't know much about exhaust systems.

Will steel putty work on sealing it? Or should I just replace it?

Are there any manufacturers/brands I should stay clear of? Is this a case of the more expensive the better?

My mechanic said Walker and Bosal are good brands, but I have no idea. And I can find cheaper.

Thanks!

[Bookworm]

Here's where I bought mine

https://www.discountconverter.com/

That was for my 03. I don't regret paying for the exact replacement. I also bought O2 sensors there.

Part of the benefit, to me, was that it was just up the street from my house (their Houston office). They just tossed it on their next Dallas to Houston truck load, and I didn't have to pay for special shipping.

[zbyers]

Do you need JUST the cat? Or does the pipe itself have a hole in it? If just the cat, you should be able to cut and weld one. I believe Magnaflow 99205HM would suffice. $100 cat, $50 weld job.

If the pipe has a hole in it, you could try sealing it with some exhaust wrap and steel putty for a while. No idea on longevity of such a fix.

[jeff_j1701]

Ya just the cat; pipes are fine.

I found a few online for under $150; my mechanic said to get a direct fit instead of a universal.

Thanks for the suggestion!!

[zbyers]

The best universal most on here have used is the Magnaflow one I mentioned. I welded one on nearly 5 years ago, and haven't had any issues yet.

[jeff_j1701]

My mechanic said a univerasal would need fabrication and he isnt equiped for that.

What does he mean by that?

[zbyers]

Sounds like he may not have a welder to weld the new one in. A universal one, like the one I mentioned, would be a cheap way to replace it. Otherwise the whole pipe is usually $$$$$$. You could check www.rockauto.com and see what their rates are on one for an 2007 Vibe/Matrix.