Hello All,

I have a a 1999 V70 AWD XC wagon with 210,000 miles. The catalytic converter is failing (it triggered a Check Engine Light). Volvo no longer sells this part (Part # 8603001). The value of my car, though priceless to me, is about $1,000 to $1,500. It is in pristine condition. Through research I have found three alternatives:

1) eEuroparts has a Volvo converter for $1,487.09

2) Magna Flow (based on its website) sells a unit made by it for $727.00

3) Rock Auto has a Bosal converter for $431.79 - per Rock Auto's website, Bosal is an OEM supplier, and I do seem to recall I have seen its name on exhaust parts for some of my other Volvos. Perhaps, it was the OEM Supplier for the converter on my XC?

All the converters are "direct fit" and not "universal units" so they will bolt on directly. They seem to have the same warranty (5 years/60,000 miles) My private garage tells me the aftermarket converters are not as good as the Volvo original converters. Their internal cores are smaller, and they frequently fail within a year or two. Perhaps their short life span reflects their reduced cost.

The idea of purchasing a Volvo converter that exceeds the value of my car does not make economic sense. Yet, the idea, of buying an aftermarket converter that may go bad in a year or two, does not appeal to me either. Yes, there is a warranty, but I am sure it will not include the cost of labor and who needs the headache. I welcome any suggestions or advice. Thank you to you all in advance.

Hugh