Since there is a Federally required warranty on the emissions-related parts such as the catalytic converter, it would be prudent to contact a dealer service department before replacing the converter at your own charge. An emission control device installed in the exhaust system to reduce the pollutant level in the exhaust gasses is the catalytic converter in which a three-way catalyst design is used with the coating of platinum and rhodium to minimize the amount of oxides of nitrogen, hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide in the exhaust gasses. Catalytic converter testing equipment is also expensive and advanced and in case of a suspected malfunction, one should visit a dealer or a certified emissions testing facility and have his diagnosis and repair. When servicing underbody parts, inspection of converter leaks, corrosions, dents and other damages, inspection of welds and flange bolts between converter and exhaust system, and replacement of converter in case of damages. A plugged catalytic converter may be investigated with the help of a vacuum gauge; it is connected at an intake manifold vacuum source and the engine is warmed and the vacuum readings at idle condition and at accelerating engine speed up to 2000 rpm are noted and any significant decrease noted. To replace, ensure that the vehicle is upheld on jackstands, unplug the electrical connections of the oxygen sensor, remove flange bolts that connect the exhaust pipe and exhaust manifold, and hold the exhaust pipe without excessive bending of the flex pipe. Disconnect the catalyst converter with the exhaust system, clean the mounting flanges, and put in place fresh gaskets, taking care not to overload the mountings and having them perfectly aligned and devoid of stress when tightening the clamps during re-installation.