Just bought a Used 04 base model and it had a rattle in the exhaust and Check engine light. The problem is the honeycomb in the cat is loose and busted. Is there a inexpensive fix so I can pass emissions test? What are my options?

 

Wow really ? Usually the flex joint area separates long before the platinum honey comb in the CAT breaks up....

Options are used, aftermarket and OEM. OEM being most expensive around $1,200.00 or so I think. What are your plans for the MINI ? Is it a DD, or future plans for performance mods ? Stay away from cheap CHINA performance headers, especially if a DD, too many headaches....leaks and CEL's.

Here is one from Magnaflow about half cost of OEM. Magnaflow Performance CAT It will accept OEM o2 Sensors too.

Here is an aftermarket cat, seller has good FB. http://www.ebay.com/itm/2002-2003-2004-2005-2006-Mini-Cooper-R53-catalytic-converter-assembly-ODB2/321717336045?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D2%26asc%3D38530%26meid%3D67a1f04483894815a1151d9a632d0b8b%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D4%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D142018407122
If you go used, and there a few good ones out there check mileage of donor car before purchase. BUT whichever one you end up purchasing USE OEM GASKETS and not the crap that comes with the aftermarket Converter kits....Unless you have lots of time and like doing things twice....lol.

 

I purchased the ebay model above about a year ago and it's been great. I think it ships out of Canada. One thing though is the CATS don't usually fail without a root cause. Check for vacuum leaks, bad O2 sensors, gasket leaks etc.

 

We sell Vibrant Performance OE replacement cats with good luck, even in the race applications there is no problems with CEL and catalyst inefficiency.

eBay special stuff usually doesn't turn out the way you want it to, for the little bit extra I would recommend a quality converter.

If you are still in need of a replacement cat we could get you taken care of!

 

Will a R53 Header and Cat fit on a R50?

 

Yes.