I recently purchased a used 2013 XC60. Engine light came on and Volvo dealer says the catalytic converter is bad. Dealer wants to charge $6000 to replace. Should I just buy the $1500 Volvo OEM part and change it myself or are there any other options? I don't want to buy an aftermarket catalytic converter and do all that work and find out I still have an engine light on.

 

I'm going through the same issue with my 2010 xc60 t6.
I tried Cataclean a few days ago and so far, the check engine light is still on.
So it may not be the cat.
A few opinions suggest that it may not be the cat but other parts. Below is a Volvo forum member's response to my issue.
"If you are getting fumes in the cabin you have an exhaust leak, which is a likely cause for a cat efficiency CEL code. Most likely you can hear the leak - like around the flex pipes but could also be a cracked manifold, a disconnected EGR tube, a broken exhaust flange etc. Address that before you blame the cat :-)"
Good luck with your issue.
So, I'm going to see the mechanic today... should be interesting. Update to follow

 

Your converter efficiency code will not go off by itself - it has to be erased.

Some codes will - if you leave your gas cap loose - that code will go away if it tests ok the next time (after you tighten the cap)

 

I took the vehicle to the dealer and THEY told me it was the catalytic converter that was bad. So I know I don't have any of the issues you mentioned. I'm not trying to diagnose the problem, I'm trying to find a cheaper fix than the $6000 charge from the dealer. I can change the cat myself, but even the Volvo OEM part is $1500. So, I'm asking are there any other alternatives out there? Can I trust the $800 part from O'Reilly Auto Parts or can I trust a muffler shop with their lower priced cats and have them cut out the bad cat and weld in a new one? Has anyone tried one of these options and solved this problem? This is my purpose for this thread.

Fyi, I don't have fumes in the cabin, bad gas mileage, or poor engine performance either. I installed a brand new OEM gas cap before the dealer checked out the car. So that is good too. Car is still running pretty good.

Thanks for any guidance.

 

Go with the parts store and also find another mechanic in case you need one. $1500+ for a CC is way too high.

Also, have you tried Rock Auto? CC's starting at $450 for the turbo and $380 for the regular engine.