Catalytic Converter: Service and Repair

Catalytic Converter Replacement (LE5, L61) (2.4L, 2.2L)

Removal Procedure

Caution: Do not bend the exhaust flex decoupler more than 3 degrees in any direction. Movement of more than 3 degrees will damage the exhaust flex decoupler.




1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle (Service and Repair).
2. Remove the exhaust muffler nuts.
3. Pull back the muffler assembly in order to separate the muffler from the catalytic converter.




4. Remove the post catalyst heated oxygen sensor (HO2S). Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Replacement (Service and Repair) for the 2.0L engine or Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Replacement (Service and Repair) for the 2.2L or 2.4L engine.
5. Remove the catalytic converter nuts.
6. Remove the catalytic converter from the exhaust manifold.
7. Remove and discard the catalytic converter to exhaust manifold gasket.

Installation Procedure

Caution: Do not bend the exhaust flex decoupler more than 3 degrees in any direction. Movement of more than 3 degrees will damage the exhaust flex decoupler.




1. Install a NEW gasket to the exhaust manifold studs.
2. Install the catalytic converter to the exhaust manifold.

Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution (Fastener Caution).

3. Install the catalytic converter nuts and tighten to 46 Nm (34 lb ft).
4. Install the post catalyst HO2S. Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Replacement (Service and Repair) for the 2.0L engine or Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Replacement (Service and Repair) for the 2.2L or 2.4L engine.




5. Pull back the muffler assembly in order to join the muffler to the catalytic converter.
6. Install the exhaust muffler nuts and tighten to 46 Nm (34 lb ft).
7. Lower the vehicle.