A “√” next to a response in the guide indicates that is the preferred response in terms of environmental compliance. If you select a response without a “√”, you may still be in compliance; however, you should verify that you are in compliance by contacting the appropriate federal or state regulatory agency and discussing your activity with them.

CATALYTIC CONVERTERS

Does facility replace catalytic converters that are the correct type based on vehicle requirements?

Replacement catalytic converters must be designed to work on the specific vehicle under repair. Automotive facilities must do one of the following:

(1) routinely check a converter catalog or chart to ensure the correct type of catalytic converters are kept in stock at the shop, or

(2) order converters one at a time as needed from a local parts store and provide the parts store with the vehicle information so that the parts store can send the correct converter for that car.

Yes–The facility does either 1 or 2 above.  √

No–The facility does not do either 1 or 2 listed above.

N/A–The facility does not service/replace catalytic converters. If NA is checked, you need not continue in this section.

Does facility replace catalytic converters on vehicle covered under the vehicle’s original manufacturer’s warranty?

Installers are prohibited from installing aftermarket catalytic converters on vehicles still covered under the vehicle manufacturer’s emission control warranty. The original catalytic converters on 1994 and older vehicles are covered under the manufacturer’s warranty for 5 years or 50,000 miles. Models 1995 and newer are covered for 8 years or 80,000 miles.

Yes–The facility does replace converters still under vehicle manufacturer’s warranty.

No–The facility only replaces converters not covered by vehicle manufacturer’s warranty.

If “yes” to previous question, was original catalytic converter missing or replaced due to State inspection program requirement?

Yes–The facility installed a converter on a vehicle still covered under manufacturer’s warranty that came into the shop with the converter missing or with authorization from the state or local vehicle/emission inspection program that has determined the existing converter had been lead poisoned, damaged, or otherwise needs replacement. The authorization from the state or local authority should be attached to the work invoice.

No–The facility installed an aftermarket catalytic converter on a vehicle still covered under manufacturer’s warranty and the vehicle’s original converter was still present and the vehicle owner had no authorization from the state or local vehicle/emission inspection program.

Does facility properly mark and keep replaced catalytic converters on-site for at least 15 days?

Used converters removed from vehicles must be kept on-site for a minimum of 15 days. The converter must be marked to indicate from which vehicle the converter was removed. A properly marked converter contains:

1. The work invoice number or date of removal and the customer’s name written with a marker, chalk or equivalent marking material; or

2. A copy of the work invoice is attached to the converter.

Yes–The marked converter meets either of the marking requirements.  √

No–The converter does not meet either of the required marking requirements.

Does facility completely fill out customer paperwork and maintain on-site for at least 6 months?

Yes–To receive a “yes” the facility must do all of the following:  √

• Completely fill out the work invoice and warranty for the replaced catalytic converter. Work invoices must include the following: 
  • Customer’s name
  • Customer’s complete address
  • Vehicle’s make, model year, and mileage
  • Reason for replacement (damaged, clogged, missing…);

   

• Fill out the catalytic converter manufacturer warranty card completely. Usually the facility will attach a copy of the warranty to the work invoice; and 
• Maintain completed work invoices and warranties on-site for at least 6 months.

No–Any of the above are not done.