I have an '03 Maxima SE. Check engine light gives me a P0430 code which tells me that my main cat is bad. My mechanic will replace the cat for $500 or remove it (replace with a pipe) for $150. I would prefer to go with the removal option. Is there something that needs to be done to the O2 sensor if I have the cat removed?

 

Main cats don't throw codes. It's one of your precats that is the issue. I believe it's the precat located between the radiator and engine.

And you cannot replace it with a pipe (although that would be nice). You have three options: replace cat, pull the current cat off and gut it, or install headers.

 

As TallTom said, main cats wont give you any codes.
The p0430 is the front precat, the one closer to the front of the car.

 

Why pay someone when you can put headers in for that price and do it yourself its such an easy job

 

Gut all the cats

 

Pay someone for what price? Are you speaking about gutting, because the price I paid was mentioned in another thread.
Headers cost $500 that I don't have.

 

Sorry read it wrong thought it said replace the cat for 500 plus the pipes would be 150$

 

Ahh.. I'd be crazy lol

 

listen to your mechanic

I had that code in my max and replaced the air filter and it went away.
It says for the 01 max it could be
Injectors
Intake leak
Catalyst failure
Spark plug issues
ignition timing issues
If it's toast it's toast

 

Do the $150 dollar one nothing will have to be done to o2 sensors... Unless like performance and have the money dont go with headers

 

Cats and precats threads in the last 10 days have Korn like

 

 

Yeah Korn's been debunking the effects of our cats since the beginning of time.

We no search, we only make thread

 

Thanks for the tip. I bought a left front cat from RockAuto.com, replaced it and the P0430 code went away.

Now, I'm getting a P0021 code. AutoZone tech says I need to replace my variable timing right solenoid. Have you seen this code on your Maxima?

 

JFC, you're really not going to search are you? REMOVE IT, SPLIT IT IN TWO, CLEAN IT, TEST TO MAKE SURE IT ACTUATES, REINSTALL

Wasted money replacing the precat. Do the rear one, too, unless you like to buy engines.

I'd ban all of you.

 

 

installing headers on 15 year old exhaust parts easy ??? really?

get some coffee !