I recently moved to a state that requires emissions testing. The mechanic I took my 2004 x-type to told me he was 99% sure he could get the car to pass emissions testing by replacing the front cat, at around $700. He told me that personally, he would not recommend investing that much into an 11 year old vehicle with 162,000 miles on it.
My engine light has been on and off for quite some time; my previous mechanic (jag dealer) had told me it was likely the catalytic converter and not worth replacing. It wasn't a big issue at the time, but now I need to pass an emissions test.
I like my car....I was wondering what those of you on this forum think?

 

It could be just a bad O2 sensor. What code are you getting?

 

How did this mechanic come about his diagnoses ? Guess work ? an EM light could mean anything from emissions to a loose fuel cap. As stated get codes read .

 

I don't know the exact codes, but they were read by the dealer in Wisconsin, and by the mechanic in Nashville. Both places said cat replacement. I am thinking I will go ahead and have it done, but was wondering what y'all thought.....

 

They could be right, but it is hard to say without the code(s). Plus, you did mention your check engine light has been off and on "for quite some time". Depending on what the issue is and how long you let it go without being addressed, maybe it could have damaged the cat. Hard to say.

Trying new O2 sensors is a lot easier and cheaper than the cat and couldn't hurt.

 

you could try and clean the cat see if that helps.

 

Suggestions:
1. Stop by a local auto parts store and get the vehicle scanned for problem codes. P042* to P043* codes, I think, are related to efficiency of the catalytic converter. Other issues, like misfiring coil packs or a vacuum leak can, over time (you said "for a while"...) damage the cat.

2. At 11 years old, and with 162k miles, you're well into the range for a variety of parts to need replacement -- cats, radiator, suspension components. It comes down to how much to you like the car. Remember, buying a new car is always a more expensive proposition than repairing the car you have. Even if you need to replace the cat, shocks and struts, ball joints, control arms, fuel pump, even the transmission(!!) you're still going to pay less than the price of a new base model Corolla. As financial guru Dave Ramsey said, "you buy a new car when the cost of the new car is less than the cost of repairs and the cost of frustration you're facing with your current car."

 

Also, you might want to shop around on prices for replacing the cat. $700-$800 for a shop to do the work isn't too bad, but you can parts prices for the cat online are running $300 to $600. Might want to talk with your local mechanic and show him/her some of these other options. For instance (and I'm not sure this is exactly what you need): 2004 Jaguar X-Type EPA Compliant Catalytic Converter Front (DEC)