Hello all. My 1998 Outback Ltd. is throwing the inefficient catalyst code. What should I do? Replace the sensor(s) or cat? I don't really want to replace the cat, I want to delete it. And what could I do for exhaust, I want it to sound deeper but not obnoxious. Thanks all.

Hello all. My 1998 Outback Ltd. is throwing the inefficient catalyst code. What should I do? Replace the sensor(s) or cat?

This may (or may not ) help you decide: http://www.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/showthread.php?t=70223

 

 

I don't really want to replace the cat, I want to delete it. And what could I do for exhaust, I want it to sound deeper but not obnoxious. Thanks all.

I'm sure most of us would prefer that a cat wasn't needed, but I'm not one of those who advocates adding to air pollution. In fact, I'm not particularly fond of noise pollution, either .

Alot of times it is just a case of subaru O2 sensors being toooo sensitive.

Hello all. My 1998 Outback Ltd. is throwing the inefficient catalyst code. What should I do? Replace the sensor(s) or cat? I don't really want to replace the cat, I want to delete it. And what could I do for exhaust, I want it to sound deeper but not obnoxious. Thanks all.

 

This is coming up more and more (more then head gaskets and torque bind). I would say do asearch, instead ill just tell you to replace the front o2 sensor. Even if it is the cat (99% its not) you most likely have elderly o2 sensors that need a change anyway. Cheaper to replace the sensors then to replace the cat and find out it was the sensor.

 

nipper

The only experience I have here is my own and the replies from several other folks.

I got PO420 a couple of years ago and since I have California converters it was going to be about a grand to replace the exhaust.

I figure since I had nearly 100,000 miles on it the front sensor was timed out anyway so it was worth a shot. I bought both front and rear sensors but only installed the front to see how long the rear will last, I reckon its life is easier.

So for $60 or so I have been code free for a couple of years and over 30,000 miles.

If I was going to change those expensive bloody converters I would also add a new ox sensor anyway for insurance. Why not try one first as it is worth the chance?