Catalytic Converter Replacement (2) :: 2009 135i (N54)

[615_Middle_TN]

After 9 yrs. both catalytic converters in my 135i need replacing, BMW of Nashville quoted me $2600 for parts (I'd assume XPortAuto) and labor ($2500). I'm considering purchasing the replacement parts after-market and taking her to EuroFix for the labor.

I'm looking at after-market parts via PartsGeek.com, which will be significantly less out-of-pocket expense (~$1000 for both front/rear) but is it worth it long-term? Or will I be replacing them again?

It's been a bad year for my car, starting with:
rear brake pad, sensor, and rotor replacement;
OFHG and cooler gasket replacement;
Vanos solenoid valve replacement;
water pump + thermostat bled system replacement.

Every three months something goes out, hindsight is 20/20: should've gone with a 335i. Approaching 10 yrs. most BMWs require a lot of maintenance/replacement parts, I just never thought I'd be spending the value of the car in 1 yr. of maintenance.

[andysantoro]

I thought emission equip had a long warranty

[mecheng03]

you should be able to find down pipes with cats used fairly cheap. I've seen them go as low as $100-150. try n54-tech as well. if the forms are dry a junk yard is another option. not sure if 135/335/535 n54 downpipes are interchangeable. brand new is a different story which is probably why they want so much.

it's a tight job but it can be done if you have the tools.

[tomahawk997]

Lots of people sell their stock downpipes here on the forum. I would look in the classifieds for some.

[Thewind727]

ill sell ya mine

[dsocold]

il sell you mine located in ny. most of the parts you list replaced i have done in the last 6 months plus more this is part of the n54 life honestly.

[rominun]

just ditch the oem downpipes and get the catless ones and a tune. way cheaper and will put a smile on your face everytime you mash the gas

[Cmoney135i]

Originally Posted by 615_Middle_TN

After 9 yrs. both catalytic converters in my 135i need replacing, BMW of Nashville quoted me $2600 for parts (I'd assume XPortAuto) and labor ($2500). I'm considering purchasing the replacement parts after-market and taking her to EuroFix for the labor.

I'm looking at after-market parts via PartsGeek.com, which will be significantly less out-of-pocket expense (~$1000 for both front/rear) but is it worth it long-term? Or will I be replacing them again?

It's been a bad year for my car, starting with:
rear brake pad, sensor, and rotor replacement;
OFHG and cooler gasket replacement;
Vanos solenoid valve replacement;
water pump + thermostat bled system replacement.

Every three months something goes out, hindsight is 20/20: should've gone with a 335i. Approaching 10 yrs. most BMWs require a lot of maintenance/replacement parts, I just never thought I'd be spending the value of the car in 1 yr. of maintenance.

335 would be the same thing...

[mike@x-ph.com]

Agree with everyone, i would not pay for brand new cats and downpipes.

Find used ones, the whole thing with install will not cost you more than $500