If your main catalytic converter is dying, it will NOT trip a Check Engine light.

However, if your pre-cats (embedded in your exhaust manifolds) are dying, they can trip a Check Engine light. Pre-cats are expensive to replace if you have your stealership do it for you. If you're under 8YR/80K, the stealership is required (by law in the U.S.) to replace your pre-cats for FREE.

Did the stealership tell you what the exact code was? Try to find out the exact code, then do a SEARCH here on CEG for it -- you'll find plenty of good advice.

On 96+ V6 equipped Contiques, the vehicles are equipped with 4 oxygen sensors (O2). They cost around $40-60 apiece and really aren't hard to install yourself (most auto parts stores will loan you an O2 sensor wrench for free). Bank 2 is located closest to the radiator (e.g. easiest bank to access).

I've never heard of "Random Tech Cats." I'd be wary of any product with the word "Random" in the name!


1996 Ford Contour SE (Mine): V-6 MTX/DMD/MSDS/K&N3530/Torsen/Spec-1/Split-Exhaust/Walbro/Syncromax..119K 2003 GMC Yukon XL SLT (Hers): 285HP/Stock..93K