Typically, replacing the catalytic converter on a 2013 Ford Focus costs between roughly $600 and $2,000 installed, depending on whether you buy an OEM Ford part or an aftermarket alternative, and on whether your car uses one or two catalytic converters.
Prices vary by engine type and model specifics, your location, and the shop’s labor rate. Some 2013 Focus models use two catalytic converters, while others use a single unit, and some installers may replace additional exhaust components or sensors during the job. The following breakdown covers common scenarios and pricing expectations to help you shop confidently.
What determines the price
Before a price is quoted, shops consider the type of catalytic converter, the number of converters, and the labor required. The presence of sensors, the need for custom fabrication, and regional labor rates also influence the final bill. The following sections outline typical ranges to expect.
- OEM Ford catalytic converter: typically around $500 to $1,000 per converter; many 2013 Focus models use two converters, which doubles part cost if both are replaced.
- Aftermarket direct-fit catalytic converter: commonly about $150 to $600 per converter, with higher-end brands reaching up to $700 or more.
- Universal aftermarket converter (requires fabrication and mounting): generally $100 to $350 for the part, plus additional welding labor and hardware.
- Additional components and sensors: oxygen sensors or upstream/downstream sensors may need replacement or cleaning, adding roughly $20 to $200 per sensor.
Part price categories without labor included. The cost of the converter itself depends on whether you choose an OEM Ford part, a direct-fit aftermarket unit, or a universal converter that requires fabrication.
Concluding the part-focused list, remember that the total price will also hinge on installation time, shop rates, and whether one or two converters must be replaced.
Installed cost: one converter vs. two
To give you a realistic sense of total out-of-pocket expense, here are typical installed price ranges by configuration. These figures include parts and labor and reflect common regional rates in the United States as of 2024–2026.
- One catalytic converter (OEM part): roughly $800 to $1,500 installed.
- One catalytic converter (aftermarket direct-fit): roughly $300 to $900 installed.
- Two catalytic converters (OEM parts): roughly $1,700 to $3,000 installed.
- Two catalytic converters (aftermarket direct-fit): roughly $600 to $1,800 installed.
Before listing the scenarios, note that installation time and labor rates vary by shop and region. The ranges below assume a standard bolt-on replacement and do not account for unusual corrosion or additional exhaust work.
These ranges illustrate how the configuration and part choice shape the final bill. If your vehicle uses two converters, the total will be higher even when choosing aftermarket parts, simply due to the additional unit and labor.
Where to shop for parts
Where you buy the converter can influence price, warranty, and fitment. Consider the following common sources and tips when shopping for a 2013 Ford Focus catalytic converter.
- Authorized Ford dealer or OEM parts retailer: best for exact part matching and warranties, but often the priciest option.
- National auto parts chains (e.g., AutoZone, O'Reilly, Advance Auto): a common balance of price and warranty with both OEM and aftermarket options.
- Online marketplaces and aftermarket manufacturers: can offer lower prices; verify fitment for your exact engine code and emissions requirements, and watch for counterfeit or low-quality parts.
Guidance on sourcing options helps you compare prices and ensure compatibility with your model.
When shopping, compare part numbers, check for federal/state emission compliance, and confirm whether the price includes labor or if you’ll pay separately for installation. Also ask about the warranty on the part and any labor warranty from the shop.
What to expect during installation
Expect the process to involve lifting the vehicle, removing old hardware, and securing the new converter with proper gaskets and clamps. If the exhaust system is rusty or seized, you could incur additional labor costs or need replacement hangers, gaskets, or pipes. Some shops may also scan for any related diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and address sensors or related components as part of the service.
Summary
For a 2013 Ford Focus, catalytic converter replacement costs vary widely based on parts choice (OEM vs aftermarket), the number of converters involved, and local labor rates. One converter replacements tend to be cheaper, while two-converter jobs are substantially more expensive. OEM parts generally carry larger price tags but can offer stronger warranties and guaranteed fit, whereas aftermarket direct-fit parts provide substantial savings with acceptable reliability. Always verify whether your model uses one or two converters and obtain multiple written estimates that itemize parts and labor. Pair your price checks with a quick check of emissions compliance and warranty terms to make a smart, legal, and long-lasting choice.