How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Catalytic Converter? (2026 Guide)
Posted by HottExhaust on 21st Nov 2025
If your vehicle’s catalytic converter has failed, or worse, been stolen, you’re not alone. As emission standards tighten and precious metal prices rise, catalytic converter replacements have become one of the costliest exhaust repairs for drivers in 2026.
But how much should you expect to pay? The short answer: it depends. The type of converter, your vehicle’s make and model, and even where you live can all significantly impact the total cost. This guide breaks down what affects pricing and how to make sure you’re getting a fair deal on your replacement.
Price Breakdown: Part Cost vs. Labor Cost
Replacing a catalytic converter involves two main expenses: the part itself and the labor to install it. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect in 2026:
|
Category |
Average Cost Range (USD) |
Details |
|
Federal Catalytic Converter (EPA-Compliant) |
$400 – $1,500 |
Standard converters approved for use in 49 states. Affordable and widely available. |
|
CARB-Compliant Catalytic Converter |
$1,200 – $3,000 |
Required in CARB states. Includes more precious metals for stricter emissions control. |
|
Labor Cost (Installation) |
$100 – $200 per hour |
Most jobs take 1.5–3 hours, depending on vehicle type and exhaust design. |
|
Total Replacement Estimate |
$800 – $2,500+ |
Average for most vehicles; luxury or hybrid models can exceed $3,000. |
Why CARB-Compliant Converters Cost More Than Federal Ones
One of the biggest factors in price differences is whether your car requires a CARB-compliant converter or a Federal (EPA) converter.
Federal (EPA) Catalytic Converters
Federal converters are built to meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s nationwide standards. They’re legal in 49 states, cost-effective, and generally easier to find. If your vehicle is registered outside of CARB-regulated states (like California, New York, or Colorado), a Federal converter is usually all you need.
CARB-Compliant Catalytic Converters
CARB (California Air Resources Board) converters meet stricter emissions requirements and undergo additional testing and certification. These converters contain more precious metals to achieve cleaner emissions, which is why they cost significantly more than Federal ones.
While the price difference may seem steep, it’s important to use the correct type for your region. For example, specific models like the Calcat direct-fit options show how CARB certification drives design and cost for different brands and platforms.
How Your Vehicle’s Make and Model Impacts the Price
Not all catalytic converters are built the same. Factors like engine size, exhaust design, and emissions standards for each vehicle type can cause big price differences.
|
Vehicle Type / Model |
Average Converter Cost (USD) |
Reason for Price Difference |
|
Compact Cars (Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla) |
$400 – $1,000 |
Smaller engines and simpler exhaust systems mean lower material and labor costs. |
|
Mid-Size SUVs (Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander) |
$900 – $1,800 |
Larger engines require bigger converters with more precious metals. |
|
Trucks (Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado) |
$1,000 – $2,500 |
Heavier loads and dual exhaust setups increase cost and installation time. |
|
Luxury Vehicles (BMW, Lexus, Audi) |
$1,800 – $3,000+ |
Specialized designs, brand-specific parts, and higher-grade materials raise the price. |
|
Hybrid or Electric-Assisted Models (Prius, hybrid SUVs) |
$1,200 – $2,800 |
Converters must handle unique exhaust temperatures and efficiency standards. |
For diesel truck owners, universal EPA-grade diesel converters represent the higher end of material needs and sizing.
Does Insurance Cover Catalytic Converter Replacement?
Whether your catalytic converter replacement is covered by insurance depends on the cause of damage.
- Theft: If your converter was stolen, most comprehensive insurance policies cover the replacement cost, minus your deductible. With catalytic converter thefts remaining a major issue in 2026, this coverage is more valuable than ever.
- Wear or Failure: If your converter failed due to age, contamination, or internal damage, insurance typically won’t cover it. These issues are considered normal wear and tear.
- Accidents: If the converter was damaged in a collision, your collision coverage may apply.
It’s always worth checking with your insurer before paying out of pocket, especially if the replacement involves expensive CARB-certified parts.
Get a Fair Price on a High-Quality Replacement with HottExhaust
No matter your vehicle type or emissions requirements, you shouldn’t have to overpay for a reliable catalytic converter. At HottExhaust, we carry a full selection of Federal and CARB-compliant catalytic converters for top brands and models—all from trusted manufacturers known for durability and precision fit.
Our direct-fit converters are designed for fast installation, long service life, and full compliance with emission standards. With transparent pricing and expert customer support, we make it easy to find the right converter for your vehicle without the dealership markup.
Whether you drive a work truck, SUV, or hybrid, we’ll help you get a fair price on high-quality replacements built to last. Browse our catalog today or contact us to restore your vehicle’s performance and efficiency with confidence.