aftermarket cat: 7 Ultimate Benefits
The Rise of the aftermarket cat
Within today’s automotive landscape, cost-effective emission control is no longer optional—it is essential. Drivers, fleet managers, and garage owners across the globe continuously type the term aftermarket cat into search bars, looking for a reliable catalytic converter that reduces harmful gases without draining budgets. Catman, the worldwide supplier of Catalytic Converters, Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF filters), and Exhaust Systems, has answered that call for more than thirty years. If you need a quick overview of after-market catalytic converters, Catman’s knowledge hub is a great place to start. Every aftermarket cat in Catman’s inventory is sourced from trusted manufacturers, dispatched quickly, and backed by a minimum 12-month guarantee. This comprehensive guide explores why choosing an aftermarket cat from Catman is a smart move, how it works, and how you can install, maintain, and maximise its benefits. For additional context on modern emissions hardware—including DPFs, oxidation catalysts, and SCR systems—check out this emissions-control primer.
What Is an aftermarket cat and How Does It Work?
A catalytic converter’s core mission is to convert poisonous exhaust into less harmful gases before they exit the tailpipe. An aftermarket cat performs the same chemical alchemy—oxidising carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons while reducing nitrogen oxides—but is manufactured by a specialist company rather than the original vehicle maker. Catman ensures every aftermarket cat it distributes meets or exceeds OE specifications, featuring precious-metal coatings calibrated for optimum exhaust flow. Unlike counterfeit parts, a genuine Catman-approved aftermarket cat arrives with certification documents that prove legality for MOT, IVA, TÜV, or state inspections, depending on your region. Curious about model-specific replacements? Explore dedicated pages such as the Volkswagen catalytic converter or the Honda catalytic converter sections to see how Catman adapts its solutions. For a deeper dive into how monolithic substrates and precious-metal washcoats work together, review the concise technical breakdown on catalytic monoliths.
Original vs aftermarket cat: 7 Key Differences
- Cost Efficiency: A quality aftermarket cat can be 30–50 % less expensive than dealer-supplied units—browse affordable catalytic converters for sale to compare price points.
- Availability: Catman stocks thousands of part numbers, ensuring the correct aftermarket cat ships the same day. You can order catalytic converters online in the UK with live stock checks.
- Warranty: Every Catman aftermarket cat carries at least a 12-month guarantee.
- Materials: High precious-metal loadings provide durability and fast light-off times.
- Global Certifications: Catman’s inventory satisfies Euro 6, EPA, and CARB standards; read more about U.S. diesel-aftertreatment rules on the EPA’s diesel retrofit page.
- Fit & Finish: Precision pipe bending and laser-cut flanges mean a Catman aftermarket cat fits as well as OE.
- Support: Catman offers telephone, email, and live-chat troubleshooting for every aftermarket cat; see real-world feedback in the customer testimonials section.
Why Choose an aftermarket cat from Catman?
Catman’s commitment to quality means only reputable manufacturers with ISO 9001 certification join its supply chain. Each aftermarket cat undergoes dynamometer testing, vibration analysis, and thermocycle stress tests to guarantee longevity. Couple that with Catman’s rapid logistics network, and customers in the UK, Europe, North America, and beyond receive their aftermarket cat precisely when needed. Catman’s customer-first ethos is evident in transparent pricing, expert advice, and an unrivalled selection of complementary products—such as DPF filters and full exhaust systems—that integrate seamlessly with your chosen aftermarket cat. For drivers tackling soot build-up, pairing a new converter with a service like Ranger DPF cleaning restores back-pressure balance and extends catalyst life. To understand how DPFs and cats work together, skim this comparative guide on DPF filters versus alternatives.
Quality, Certifications & Warranties That Matter
Every aftermarket cat dispatched by Catman is accompanied by a certificate of conformity outlining emissions performance data. For UK buyers, Catman provides VCA-approved homologation numbers to satisfy MOT inspectors. North American clients receive EPA or CARB executive order labels affixed to their aftermarket cat. Catman’s 12-month guarantee—extendable to 36 months when installed alongside Catman DPF and exhaust components—covers structural integrity, catalyst efficiency, and workmanship. Should an aftermarket cat fail within the guarantee period, Catman arranges a quick replacement, minimising downtime. If you’re unsure which paperwork you need, consult Catman’s primer on catalytic converter laws. Industry bodies such as SAE International regularly publish aftertreatment standards that Catman uses to align its testing protocols.
Compatibility & Fitment Guide
Selecting the correct aftermarket cat starts with your vehicle’s VIN or registration number. Catman’s online database cross-references make, model, engine code, and production year to pinpoint the perfect part. Detailed dimensional drawings illustrate pipe diameter, hanger locations, and oxygen-sensor bung placement. For unique applications—classic restorations, performance builds, or heavy-duty fleets—Catman’s technical team can source or fabricate a bespoke aftermarket cat. Once matched, each kit includes gaskets, clamps, and anti-seize compound to ensure a leak-free seal. Popular makes such as Ford, BMW, and Toyota have dedicated fitment pages to streamline selection. For a refresher on how DPF and catalytic converter roles differ, see the technical overview at Manta Pro.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide for Your aftermarket cat
- Safety First: Allow the exhaust to cool fully before accessing the original catalytic converter.
- Vehicle Support: Raise the vehicle on axle stands or a lift, securing all points.
- Disconnect Sensors: Unplug upstream and downstream oxygen sensors to protect wiring.
- Remove Fasteners: Spray penetrating oil, then remove bolts holding the old converter.
- Inspect Mounts: Check brackets for cracks; replace if fatigued.
- Fit the aftermarket cat: Slide the new aftermarket cat into place, aligning flanges and hangers.
- Torque to Spec: Tighten bolts to manufacturer torque using a calibrated wrench.
- Reconnect Sensors: Apply dielectric grease and thread oxygen sensors into your aftermarket cat.
- Leak Check: Start the engine, listening for exhaust leaks around the aftermarket cat.
- Road Test: Drive 15 km to allow the aftermarket cat to reach operating temperature and self-clean.
Legal Compliance & Emission Regulations Worldwide
Whether you operate in London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone or California’s strict CARB jurisdiction, installing a compliant aftermarket cat is critical. Catman’s product catalogue clearly labels which aftermarket cat models hold Euro 6 type approval, SABS certification for South Africa, or JC 08 clearance for Japan. With more metropolitan areas introducing congestion charges based on CO2 and NOx output, a high-efficiency Catman aftermarket cat quickly pays for itself by avoiding penalties. To calculate potential savings, consult Catman’s car catalyst price checker and weigh it against local emission-zone fees. For country-by-country regulatory updates, keep an eye on research briefs from The ICCT.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your aftermarket cat Performing
- Use Low-Ash Oil: Prevents fouling of the monolith inside the aftermarket cat.
- Fix Misfires Quickly: Raw fuel overheats the catalyst; protect your aftermarket cat by resolving ignition issues.
- Pair with Clean DPF: A blocked filter increases back-pressure, stressing the aftermarket cat; services like Focus 1.6 TDCi DPF regeneration restore flow. Learn how DPF fouling affects catalyst life in this data-driven analysis.
- Regular Diagnostics: Run OBD scans monthly; a P0420 or P0430 code signals reduced aftermarket cat efficiency.
- Avoid Fuel Additives: Metallic additives can coat the substrate of your aftermarket cat, reducing surface area.
Customer Success Stories
Taxi Fleet, London: By converting 50 cabs to Catman’s Euro 6-rated aftermarket cat, the operator cut annual congestion charges by £22,000 while improving fuel economy 5 %. Freight Hauler, Munich: A logistics firm replaced aged OE converters with Catman HD aftermarket cat units and avoided €18,500 in low-emission-zone fines. Classic Car Club, Dallas: Members fitted bespoke stainless-steel aftermarket cat assemblies supplied by Catman, preserving originality and meeting state inspections without power loss. For more real-world feedback, visit Catman’s testimonials page.
FAQs About the aftermarket cat
Q: How long does a Catman aftermarket cat last? A: With correct maintenance, 100,000–160,000 km. Q: Will an aftermarket cat void my vehicle warranty? A: No, provided it meets OE spec and is installed correctly. Q: Does Catman ship internationally? A: Yes—same-day dispatch via DHL, DPD, or UPS to over 90 countries. Q: Can I install a performance exhaust with my aftermarket cat? A: Absolutely; a free-flow system paired with a high-cell-count aftermarket cat can unlock extra horsepower while staying legal.
Ready to Upgrade? Contact Catman Today
If you are convinced that an aftermarket cat is the smartest route to cleaner, stronger, and more economical motoring, call Catman on 01489 666 468, 01489 666 384, or 0207 101 9387. You can also email info@catman.co.uk for a rapid quotation or submit an online order request. With warehouses stocked across the UK and Europe, Catman delivers the precise aftermarket cat you need—fast, guaranteed, and at a price that makes sense.
