I've been hearing a lot about catalytic converters being stolen in under 5 minutes. I live in San Jose and I do have a garage to park my Prius - but have concerns when running errands. So, I've decided to take preemptive action by having a shield installed (and possibly other redundant theft prevention - if possible). I'm looking for a muffler (or general body shop) that can facilitate a full service installation in (or near) San Jose, CA Thanks in advance! Doralynn
It's a very easy install... If I were you I'd find a small time neighborhood mechanic with a lift... They can do it real quick... You could probably also do this yourself with a jack and some jackstands and won't take more than a couple-few hours, but depends on your tools & skills.
around 170-200 for the cat shield, mechanics would prob charge 50-100 bucks to install it depending if they actually use the rivets and bolts provided by the cat shield. If they just use sheet metal screws it will be cheaper, expect it to be closer to 100$ if the mechanics follow the install properly. For me since i did not want rivets on there, i used 3 different types of screws (Philips, hex, and security torx head) to secure the shield so the only easy way to remove it would be to grind and cut off the entire shield, which in that point there isn't anything you can do.
Moses write, "3 different types of screws (Philips, hex, and security torx head) to secure the shield " I think that is an excellent idea.... may slow down the thief and even slower to remove than rivets. FWIW...Hey all our co-members, I think labor rates in San Jose Calif are near $175.00 an hour. OP... Sadly, I have no recommends on a muffler shop or independent mechanic in your area. Good luck...seems like an easy install job.
Thanks for the tips. This is very helpful. By the way, what is the typical cost of replacing a catalytic converter on a 2007 Prius? Is this something that can only be done at the dealership?
$2,000. if i recall correctly. anyone can do it, but cali only smogs oem cats. check in with caroline at luscious garage
B&C Auto in San Jose close to 87. almost got it but had to think about it because of my Cusco brace. Hope it all works out
I bet those that opt for this option don't leave their car in accessory mode very often . Otherwise they're repacking the 12 volt often.
How would a smog shop know if I had an OEM catalytic converter or not? Are they checking some type of identifying numbers located on the cat or something?
So, if I add a plate to prevent theft of my catalytic converter then will this cause a problem when I get my car smogged? That is, will the mechanic have to remove that plate to check numbers or visually inspect and observe I have the the proper cat installed?
No. There are holes in the plate strategically placed so that the smog inspector can see the OEM Toyota stamp and part number.
Yea, and San Francisco Toyota dealer installs the same cat plate sold by cat security or w.e the name was. Although honestly toyota should offer to cover the plate and install for free for the gen 2s
If you're looking for an installer for catshields, you can take a look at MillerCAT's website. They seem to have San Jose covered so you should have plenty of choices.
