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2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS 2.4 failed smog check for high NOx. Does it need a new CAT?

2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS. I just got this car and I want to import it to mexico but it costs to much, so I registered it in my name but it failed the smog test and they said it need a catalytic converter (rear) in order to pass. The muffler shop quoted $240.00 but my smog mechanic said it is the illegal catalytic converter, that I need to buy the one that is legal in California which costs $ 425.00. It is too much for me to spend right now. Is any another solution? My Mitsubishi failed NOx at 15 mph (833 PPM).
Answer:

I would not just to the conclusion that your 2002 model vehicle, Mitsubishi Eclipse or any 2002 model vehicle for that matter, needs a new Catalytic Converter this soon; unless this diagnosis came from a certified and reputable smog check mechanic. I'd recommend you have a certified smog check repair station, not a regular mechanic and definitely not a muffler shop, diagnose your Mitsubishi's high NOx problem before you replace the CAT. More then likely you will have a lean fuel condition or a plugged up EGR valve which is causing the high NOx problem rather then a bad CAT. It's too soon for the CAT to go bad, and if in fact it did go bad this soon there must be an underlying problem which damaged it. You need to fix that problem first and then install a new CAT or else you'll end up damaging the new CAT as well; and failing the next smog check in two years. If it turns out you do need a CAT, the only legal option I'm afraid is to install a California legal OEM Catalytic Converter which is usually more expensive because California emission standards are more stringent than the EPA's; Federal (Environmental Protection Agency). A non-California certified Catalytic Converter may not reach certain minimum performance standards required by California, although it may meet these requirements for the EPA. posted by SmogTips Support

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