Hello all, new here and adding to the pile of catalytic converter-theft-related threads. I have a 2011 prius and my cat got stolen. They took the whole thing - unbolted on one end and cut the other. I live in California and need an OEM cat in order to pass smog. Apparently it is illegal to sell used cats, which makes sense, but it means the supply is very very limited. The big salvage yards like pick-n-pull won't sell you one. I found a smaller yard that will - they confirmed it's illegal but they don't care. I asked if I could be present while they cut it off the vehicle so I know I'm not buying a stolen cat. BUT... I want to make sure the cat is OEM and not an after-market. Considering it's in a junkyard there's a decent chance they've already had their cat stolen and replaced with an aftermarket. Does anyone have a picture of the toyota stamp on their cat? or know what the serial number should start with?
That’s no longer true; see this thread: California APPROVES Aftermarket Catalytic Converters! | PriusChat Correct, and also to install or advertise them; see 13 CCR § 2222, section (i)(1). According to the Electronic Parts Catalog, the catalytic converters in the front exhaust pipe assembly for third-generation Prius cars—at least when sold as a service part—should have the identifying marks “GP1” and “TB1.” Online photos show the markings stamped into the metal along with a Toyota logo.
