DEC Catalytic Converter (49 state) - fits BMW 318i/is (96-98) & 318ti (96-99). Meets all the OBD2 requirements except for California. 2yr warranty on the converter and 5yr on the pipes. DEC's new 49-state cats (Aug 2009-on) include the same level of noble metal loading (platinum, paladium, & rhodium) as the more costly California converters.

Hardware included..............

• Manifold gasket -18301711969 (x1)
• Exhaust manifold copper plated locknuts - 18301737774 (x4)
• Exhaust locknuts - with flange (prevailing torque style) (x2)

There is a $20.00 Credit "Hardware Delete" option for customers who wanting to source the above items locally or through their repair shop.

Shipping - hardware and gaskets (if selected) will ship from NJ via Fedex ground (see transit time map) . Catalytic converter will ship directly from DEC in CA. Expedited delivery options are available at additional cost.

Important Note - the images (line drawings) shown are a representation of the shape of the catalytic converter(s) for this vehicle. The end terminations (flanges and straight pipes) are illustrated accurately but the silencers and heat shielding will most likely be different from the original BMW factory part. If you want something that looks EXACTLY like the factory converter, the original BMW part (with a 1 year warranty, excluding hardware & gaskets) can be purchased through your local dealer for $1,397.00 (plus core), less any dealer discounts.

Additional comments - The most common reason for replacing an OBDII converter is a PO420 code ("Catalyst Inefficiency"). This is caused when the rear oxygen sensor(s) detect a fluctuation that is greater than the vehicle's computer allows. The oxygen sensors do not measure Hydrocarbons, Carbon Monoxide, or Nitric Oxide.....they only measure the oxygen retention of the catalyst. If there is any type of air leak, it could trip this code. DEC has also found that using a higher octane fuel than the manufacturer recommends can cause red light problems. It will cause too much carbon to be built up and trip the PO420 code. CARBON BUILD UP is a major problem. Carbon releases oxygen and will give an incorrect oxygen sensor readings causing the air fuel mixture to be incorrect. This also causes more carbon to build up because of the incorrect fuel mixture. Carbon needs to be cleaned out to maintain proper air fuel mixtures!

DEC requires that oxygen sensors be replaced with the converter to ensure warranty protection.

Warranty Exceptions - Vehicles that have had aftermarket (ie, "performance") fuel management software changes may experience premature failure of the catalytic converter. This may result in the failure to pass state smog testing. DEC will inspect all cats returned for warranty replacement to determine if there was a "manufacturing" failure. If the failure was due to engine or fuel management issues, they will typically provide a "one-time only" courtesy warranty replacement. Customer is responsible for all shipping (inbound and return) and labor costs on all warranty replacements.