2001 S40. Brought the car into my mechanic to check out exhaust sounds...he said it is the rear cat/ pipe. Contacted FCP- $280+ for a Davico direct-fit. Mechanic said "Hey, is this a California car or Federal"? What? I live in NY...bought the car used in 2004. He took the VIN, called local Volvo Dealership. Dealership said "95% of the cars are Calif emissions. We use our exhaust ($900 for the rear cat section) because others throw codes". How do I REALLY find out if my car is set for California emissions? I am so confused. What happened to the days where I buy a muffler, pop it in, and drive away?

 

I was under the impression that all North American S40's are the same.

Exactly what is the problem? Hole in the exhaust? Check engine light? What is a rear cat? My car has one just below the turbo. Are you talking about the muffler? Got any pictures?