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What is the catalytic converter for in a Mazda 3?

So, my Mazda 3 has been acting up lately. I took it to a mechanic and he said that there was an issue with my catalytic converter. Then, he said it would be over $500 to get it replaced! How important is the catalytic converter anyway? What does a Mazda 3 catalytic converter do?

avatar
Patrick Price · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Great question! So, the catalytic converter in a
Mazda 3
regulates your car’s harmful emissions by converting toxic pollutants in your exhaust into safe gasses. Without a working converter, your Mazda will have several performance issues and increased harmful emissions. Not to mention, it’s illegal in many states to drive without a converter—and you’ll almost certainly fail emissions testing.
As far as the price you were quoted, $500 is fairly common for a converter replacement—even a little on the low side. But you can always get quotes from multiple mechanics and compare them to confirm you’re getting a fair rate.
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