So in 2022 we bought a 2009 Chevy HHR from its original buyer in as-is condition. It had about 55k miles on it, and looked basically new. The only problem was that it needed a new catalytic converter, and in hindsight we didn't realize that the best place to take it would have been the Chevy Service Center or someone who could install the correct CAT converter. Instead we were referred by a friend to a fly in the wall garage that did custom jobs and installed one that turned out to be incompatible for $725. The Check Engine light won't go off now, according to Chevy because it's the wrong converter, and therefore won't pass an emissions test.

I can try to apply for an emissions waiver, which is tedious because it's been two years since I had the wrong one installed, and the receipt they gave me wasn't itemized or correctly labeled. I'm thinking I'll have to just take another hit and get the correct CAT converter installed, because I'm also thinking of just trading it in or re-selling it in the future. What would you recommend in terms of finding the correct converter and having it properly installed?

Thanks in advance.

 

55K is very low mileage for a bad cat; was the cause of the failure addressed?
What is the code number that is causing the CEL?

 

Check this cat out, I just installed one in my 2011, no codes , no problems. Just 5 fasteners. Easy peasy

https://mufflerexpress.ca/products/c...-2-2l-and-2-4l

 

I should have been more specific, the original converter was actually severed and needed to be replaced. After it was replaced, I forget what the specific code was but I was told that it was either the converter or oxygen sensors. I got new oxygen sensors but the light remained on, and then Chevy dealer confirmed that the light wont go off until I get the correct converter installed. :-/.

 

Thank you! Definitely noted.

 

Go to your local parts palace ask them to read the codes, write down the code and post them here, if you have the part numbers of the o2 sensors installed post them here.