A 1998 Nissan Altima has two catalytic converters—one bolted to the exhaust manifold at the back of the engine and one beneath the car between the exhaust pipe and the muffler.

As catalytic converter theft continues to plague drivers across the nation, it’s more important than ever to learn your cat’s location and take the proper steps to protect it. This article will focus on the 1998 Nissan Altima catalytic converter location. We’ll explain where it’s located, how to protect it, and why cats are so important in the first place.

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Where is the catalytic converter on a 1998 Nissan Altima?

The 1998 Nissan Altima has two catalytic converters. The first one is bolted to the base of the exhaust manifold at the back of the engine. The second cat is located on the bottom of the vehicle, in between the front exhaust pipe and the muffler.

Due to its position on the bottom of the car, the second catalytic converter is the most likely to be stolen. The first cat is much more difficult to access and probably will not be a target for thieves. Furthermore, as a midsize car with low ground clearance, your Altima is a less appealing mark for thieves than vehicles with more accessible cats, like SUVs or trucks.

What are the benefits of a catalytic converter on a 1998 Nissan Altima?

You might find yourself wondering why automotive manufacturers install catalytic converters on their cars, especially when they’re such appealing targets for thieves. The reality is that catalytic converters are an essential component of automotive exhaust systems. And in our age of increasing climate instability, quality cats are vital for reducing the number of harmful emissions escaping into the atmosphere.

In basic terms, catalytic converters reduce the number of toxic gases that escape your car’s tailpipe. They do this by converting the most harmful pollutants—like hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide—into less toxic molecules, like oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen.

The conversion process takes place in a catalyst chamber made from highly-expensive precious metals like platinum, rhodium, and palladium. Those rare metals—and their skyrocketing prices—are what thieves find so attractive.

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How to protect the catalytic converter on your 1998 Nissan Altima

Fortunately, your Nissan Altima is not one of the

. But that doesn’t mean you can’t fall victim to this crime.

Even though your Altima might not be the most appealing target for catalytic converter thieves, it’s still important to take steps to protect yourself from theft. Here is a list of some of the most efficient ways to protect yourself from catalytic converter theft:

Purchase an anti-theft device. Some of the most popular and simple devices designed to protect drivers from catalytic converter theft include products like the

CatStrap™

and

CatClamp®

. But other effective tools include shields, cages and alarms.

Park indoors or in a well-lit area. While the safest place to park your car is in a secure garage, a well-lit parking lot or even a driveway with motion-activated flood lights can go a long way toward protecting your vehicle.

Paint or scratch your VIN on the cat. While this step probably won’t deter thieves from attempting to steal your cat, it will make it harder to sell the stolen part on the black market and easier to trace.

In addition to the methods outlined above, there is one more step you can take to protect yourself from catalytic converter theft. Purchase a

car insurance

policy that includes

comprehensive coverage

. If you become a victim of catalytic converter theft and your policy doesn’t include this coverage, you won’t be able to file a claim and will most likely be forced to pay for the repair yourself.

What to do if your catalytic converter is stolen

If you, unfortunately, find yourself the victim of catalytic converter theft, there are a few steps you should take. First, try not to panic. Instead:

Document the crime by taking videos and pictures of your exhaust system and the missing cat.

Contact the appropriate authorities and file a police report.

If you have comprehensive insurance, submit a claim with your insurance company.

Consider purchasing an aftermarket replacement cat to cut down on expenses and prevent future theft.

Shop for an anti-theft device to stop future thieves.

MORE:

How to know if your catalytic converter was stolen

When to replace the catalytic converter on a 1998 Nissan Altima

Catalytic converters typically last around 10 years or 100,000 miles. However, like most of the parts on your car, they do eventually wear out. These are the signs of a bad catalytic converter:

Reduced engine performance and sluggish acceleration

Dark or unpleasant-smelling exhaust smoke (sulfur or rotten egg smell is a classic sign of a bad catalytic converter)

Failed emissions test

Vehicle undercarriage overheating

A check engine light

If you experience any of these symptoms, you can use an onboard diagnostics (OBD) tool to check for any engine codes or exhaust system problems. Alternatively, you can take your car to the dealership or an independent shop and let the professionals take a look. Some independent auto repair shops even specialize in exhaust system work.

Occasionally, you might only need to replace part of your catalytic converter, like a heat shield. However, you might also need a complete replacement cat or even new accessory parts, like oxygen sensors. If you need a catalytic converter replacement on your 1998 Nissan Altima, you can expect the cost to range from $500 to over $1,500.

New Nissan vehicles come with emissions warranties that cover emissions control devices under three categories: Performance (two years or 24,000 miles), Defect (three years or 36,000 miles), and Long-Term Defect (eight years or 80,000 miles). Unfortunately, all 1998 Nissan Altimas are outside this window. So, if you need a catalytic converter replacement, you’ll most likely have to cover the cost yourself.

How to replace a catalytic converter

Catalytic converter replacements aren’t the most accessible DIY job unless you’re mechanically inclined and have access to the correct tools. Sometimes, those tools include a pipe cutter or torch to remove welded-on cats, gasket cleaners, pipe expanders, and more.

However, if you do decide to take on this project, make sure you purchase the correct OEM-grade replacement catalytic converter. While installing an aftermarket cat is a great way to save money and reduce the risk of future theft, you still need to ensure that you have a high-quality part that fits your car.

Finally, consider purchasing a repair manual for your vehicle. They contain valuable information that can help you tackle just about any job—repair or maintenance—that your car happens to require.

MORE:

How to fix a catalytic converter without replacing it

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