Keep in mind, these are only guidelines from MagnaFlow, and they don’t absolve the technician of the responsibility to perform a thorough diagnosis and to install the correct catalytic converter for the application. THIS NOW ALSO INCLUDES VEHICLES CONFORMING TO THE NEW STANDARDS FOR AFTERMARKET CATALYTIC CONVERTERS IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK.

OEM Grade OBDII: For vehicles conforming to California (CARB) TLEV, LEV, ULEV, SULEV or Federal (EPA) NLEV emissions.

Heavy Metal Grade OBDII: For vehicles conforming to EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) Tier O and Tier 1 emissions use.

MagnaFlow recommends the use of the following catalytic converter grades, depending on your vehicle’s factory emissions certification: According to MagnaFlow, this tag is typically located in one of two spots in the engine compartment as depicted in the image below. Most emissions-compliant, late-model vehicles will include a Vehicle Emissions Control Information Tag, which states your vehicle’s factory OBDII emissions certification. You can use the year/make/model search on the MagnaFlow site or shop for your converter on sites, such as , that offer year/make/model search options. The best way to begin your search for the right catalytic converter is by first narrowing your focus to the converters that fit your vehicle’s year, make, and model.

MagnaFlow has taken this opportunity to educate you on how to choose the right catalytic converter for your on-road car or truck. The exhaust experts at MagnaFlow have even put together an easy, four-step plan to get you set up with the right converter for your OBDII (1996-newer) vehicle.

You can read all about the requirements and rules in the New York Department of Environmental Conservation’s fact sheet. New York, which had already adopted California’s low emission vehicle (LEV) standards in 1990, has now implemented Cali’s stricter requirements for aftermarket catalytic converters. Move over, California–you’ve got company when it comes to strict emissions standards.

Walker vs. magnaflow cat