Replacements for Exhaust Manifold Flanges???

[Tony0000]

Hi. I have a 2009 128i. My mechanic told me that the flanges connecting my exhaust manifold and my catalytic converter assembly have worn out--are paper thin--and will have to be replaced. Can you recommend any that will fit?

(My mechanic, who specializes in BMWs, is skeptical that aftermarket ones will fit. He informs me that originals ones cannot be purchased separately from the catalytic converter assembly, and so the entire assembly must be purchased and replaced: $3,300. So any actual experience with replacement flanges would be greatly valued.)

Thanks for any suggestions!

Tony

ps. Please let me know if I have posted in wrong sub-forum. Also, I've cross posted on Bimmerforum. Please let me know if this should be avoided.

[markslc1]

Buy used ones. Lots of folks have removed theirs to install headers. Or better yet buy some aa headers and a tune and save yourself $2k. You won't regret that assuming your smog regulations allow.