Just found out that my catalytic converter has a hole in it. After 25 years in the rust belt it needs replacement. I was searching for an OEM replacement but Volvo wants nearly $700 for a non-EGR cat. I can get a Bosal/Starla cat for around $130 but the downpipe I got from them lasted a whole two years before it developed a leak near a weld. Two years in the rust belt is as long as their mufflers last so I don't want to get their cat. The only other option I have seen is Magnaflow - which sells as a performance cat. I'm not against it but I have no idea how long it will last. I don't want to replace the cat again in two years.

I see that EEuroparts has a Volvo-branded cat for a reasonable price but it is an EGR cat - which my car is not.

Any other options?

 

Magna flow also sells oe cats. More money though.

The magnaflow cat I have works, but can't say anything on how long they last.
They are all stainless construction. The bricks inside... Is what I'm not sure on lasting.
It is still cheaper to do the magna flows over oe.

 

the magnaflow california-spec cats are legit, they last. no idea on the 50 state version, but I'd hope so.

the california spec is basically that it has to be OE quality honeycomb, and durable, no cheap 'pebble' cats.

 

Can anyone tell me what the difference between an EGR cat and a non-egr cat? If it is just the mating flange between the downpipe and the cat, then would it work if I purchased an EGR downpipe?

From the looks in pictures, it looks like the O2 sensor is not in the cat for an EGR one but the pictures online aren't that good.

 

If they are stainless steel, then I feel a bit better about them. Really it's the casing that rusts around here. Is the magnaflow any louder than the original? Does it work fine with the original downpipe & muffler system?