Buy Isuzu Rodeo Catalytic Converters

The catalytic converter's ceramic honeycomb is coated with tiny amounts of platinum, palladium, and rhodium that speed up chemical reactions to turn toxic carbon monoxide (CO), unburned hydrocarbons (HC), and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into cleaner water vapor and carbon dioxide. A typical converter contains about 1-2 g of rhodium and 3-7 g of platinum-a main reason thieves target them. (Langley Recycling)

Hot exhaust flows through the honeycomb. As gases touch the precious-metal coating, three-way reactions happen: CO and HC gain oxygen to become CO₂ and H₂O, while NOx loses oxygen to form harmless N₂. Because the Rodeo's converter must reach about 500 °F (260 °C) to work, short trips where it never gets hot can leave pollutants un-treated.

• Check-engine light with trouble code P0420 (catalyst efficiency below threshold). (RepairPal.com)
• Rotten-egg or sulfur smell from the tail-pipe.
• Poor acceleration, "no-power" feel, or glowing red converter from overheating exhaust. (JustAnswer)
• Drop in fuel economy or failed emissions test.

Code P0420 usually points to a worn or contaminated converter, but technicians will first rule out exhaust leaks, bad oxygen sensors, or engine misfires that let raw fuel overheat the catalyst. Ignoring the light can clog the converter and damage the Rodeo's 3.2 L V6. (RepairPal.com)

RepairPal lists the average Isuzu Rodeo catalytic-converter replacement at $1,471-$1,552, with labor around $173-$254.
Use a direct-fit converter that matches your Rodeo's model year and emissions family to avoid cutting and welding. Always replace failed oxygen sensors and fix misfires first so the new cat lasts.

• Federal Clean Air Act: Removing or "hollowing out" a converter is illegal tampering. (US EPA)
• EPA warranty: Converters are covered for 8 years/80,000 miles against defects. (US EPA)
• California CARB: Aftermarket converters must carry an Executive Order (EO) number stamped on the shell; out-of-state cats can't be installed on CA-registered Rodeos. (California Air Resources Board)

Use the correct fuel and keep the engine tuned. Cleaning additives poured into the gas tank can help break up light deposits, according to maintenance advisors. (The Sun)
Fix leaks promptly; raw fuel or coolant can melt the honeycomb. Let the engine reach full temperature on longer drives once a week to burn off moisture.

Precious-metal prices have driven a surge in converter theft, with some thieves earning over $200 per unit. (WIRED)
Parking in well-lit areas, etching the VIN on the shell, or installing a stainless-steel shield can deter thieves.

By reducing smog-forming gases, a healthy converter cuts respiratory irritants for communities and lowers greenhouse emissions, supporting EPA clean-air goals. (US EPA)

PlanetIsuzoo owners report that build dates after 8/99 have two "pre-cat" units before the Y-pipe; earlier Rodeos typically use one larger catalyst under the floor. Always match bank 1 (passenger) and bank 2 (driver) parts if your SUV has dual cats. (planetisuzoo.com)

Look for stainless-steel shells, ceramic substrates with high cell-density (400 cpsi or above), and EPA or CARB certification labels. A warranty covering at least 25,000 miles on emissions performance gives extra peace of mind. (US EPA)

Q: What does a catalytic converter do on my Isuzu Rodeo?
A: It changes harmful exhaust gases into cleaner ones before they exit the tail-pipe, helping you pass emissions tests and protect air quality. (Langley Recycling)

Q: How many converters does a 2001 Rodeo have?
A: Most 2000-2004 V6 Rodeos have two small converters-one for each cylinder bank-mounted near the engine. (planetisuzoo.com)

Q: Why did my check-engine light show code P0420?
A: The computer thinks the cat isn't cleaning enough; causes include a worn catalyst, bad O₂ sensor, exhaust leak, or engine misfire. (RepairPal.com)

Q: Can I drive with a bad converter?
A: Short trips may be possible, but a clogged cat can overheat, choke the engine, or even start a fire, so replace it soon. (TCEQ)

Q: Is the converter covered under warranty?
A: Yes-federal law gives 8 years or 80,000 miles of coverage for major emission parts like the catalytic converter. (US EPA)

Q: How much precious metal is inside?
A: On average, each converter holds about 6-10 grams combined of platinum-group metals, including up to 2 grams of rhodium. (Langley Recycling)

Q: What's the average replacement cost?
A: Including parts and labor, plan on roughly $1,500, though prices vary by location and emissions certification. (RepairPal.com)

Q: Are aftermarket converters legal in California?
A: Only units with a CARB Executive Order number are legal for install on CA-registered vehicles. (California Air Resources Board)

Q: How can I prevent theft?
A: Park in bright areas, install an anti-theft shield, or place motion-sensing alarms near the exhaust. (WIRED)

Q: Does cleaning the converter work?
A: Fuel-tank additives can clear light carbon, but severe melting or clogging means replacement. (The Sun)

Using this guide, visitors will understand what the catalytic converter does, how to spot trouble, and the best way to keep their Isuzu Rodeo running clean and strong.