The typical installed price for replacing a catalytic converter on a 2018 Chevy Equinox ranges from about $500 to $2,000, depending on part type, engine configuration, and labor rates. OEM parts cost more than aftermarket options, and some engines may use one or two converters, which affects overall cost.
This article breaks down the factors that influence price, outlines typical ranges for common configurations, and offers tips to help you shop for a fair, compliant replacement.
Cost factors
The price you pay is driven by several variables, including how many catalytic converters the vehicle uses, whether you select an OEM GM part or an aftermarket direct-fit replacement, the engine variant, and local labor rates.
- Parts type and count: The Equinox may use one or more catalytic converters depending on the engine and exhaust setup. Aftermarket direct-fit converters for a single cat typically cost about $150–$650, while OEM GM parts for a single cat commonly run about $500–$1,200 or more. If the car has two converters, parts costs can roughly double.
- Labor: Replacing a catalytic converter usually requires 1–3 hours, influenced by accessibility and whether sensors or hardware must be replaced. Labor rates commonly range from $85–$150 per hour, leading to roughly $90–$450 in labor.
- Additional components and services: Gaskets, clamps, oxygen sensors, and diagnostic checks can add about $50–$200 to the bill.
- Taxes, disposal, and shop fees: Environmental disposal charges or facility fees may add another $10–$50.
In practice, a single-cat replacement with aftermarket parts might total around $350–$900 installed, while OEM parts can push toward $700–$1,500 or more. If there are two cats, expect higher total costs due to additional parts and labor.
Typical price ranges by configuration
Note: These ranges reflect common scenarios in U.S. shops and can vary by region, vehicle exact configuration, and part availability. Always obtain a written estimate before work begins.
- Single catalytic converter, aftermarket direct-fit: part ~$150–$650; labor ~$90–$260; installed total ~$350–$900.
- Single catalytic converter, OEM GM part: part ~$500–$1,200; labor ~$120–$350; installed total ~$700–$1,550.
- Two catalytic converters (if applicable to engine configuration): total parts ~$1,000–$2,500; labor ~$240–$650; installed total ~$1,240–$3,150.
Prices above are indicative; your actual cost depends on the engine variant (for example, 1.5L vs. 2.0L configurations), the number of catalytic converters, sensor requirements, and local labor rates.
Warranty and regulatory considerations
Most new catalytic converters come with a manufacturer’s warranty, often covering defects for a few years or a certain mileage. When shopping, verify whether the quote includes labor for sensor replacements, and ensure the replacement will meet your state’s emissions testing requirements. Emissions compliance is critical in many states, and using non-certified or improper parts can cause failure at inspection or impact warranty eligibility.
What to watch for when shopping
To avoid surprises, keep these tips in mind as you compare quotes and shop for a replacement.
- Clarify how many converters are being replaced and whether the estimate is for parts and labor or per-cat.
- Ask for OEM versus aftermarket options, including which sensors are included and whether the parts carry a warranty.
- Request a written estimate that itemizes parts, labor, taxes, and any disposal or shop fees.
Being specific about parts, labor, and warranties helps you choose a reliable repair path that ensures long-term performance and regulatory compliance.
Summary
For a 2018 Chevy Equinox, catalytic converter replacement typically lands in the broad range of a few hundred to a few thousand dollars installed, with the exact price contingent on the number of converters, part type (OEM vs aftermarket), engine configuration, and local labor rates. Shop around for written estimates, compare OEM and aftermarket options, and confirm emissions compliance to avoid later issues. In most cases, budgeting roughly $500–$2,000 covers the common scenarios, with higher-end OEM or dual-cat configurations at the top end.