i own a 2007 V6 4Runner with 350,000+ miles. i am getting a P0430 code which hints towards the drivers side cat going bad. i have already replaced the 02 sensors recently on that side so i don’t believe that to be the cause. my exhaust is pretty smelly as well recently.
the reason i ask is because with 350k miles its making me question spending $1k plus to get it replaced especially when my dad (i am 18) is considering a new car for me.
i do love this car and would love to keep it as long as possible, but i know i cant really just empty the cat out and drive it like normal because i wouldn’t be able to pass inspections, its not quite old enough yet to bypass emissions tests.
are there any cheaper alternatives that wont feel like wasted money if something else catastrophic goes bad shortly after as well?
One thing to consider is that a cat doesn’t just go bad for no reason. So even if you opt to replace it you will still have to figure out why it failed and fix that problem. Possible reasons are excess unburned fuel from a misfire or other poor running condition, engine burning coolant or oil, mechanical damage, etc.