Why would a Ford dealer cut and weld cat converter?

Asked by wtfbeachford May 01, 2018 at 03:44 PM about the 2012 Ford Escape

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

Thanks in advance for your insight. I'm at a total loss.

I have a 2012 Ford Escape whose catalytic converter just went out. The
dealer tells me that they can't replace it because it's already been cut and
welded.

The thing is... it's only ever been serviced and maintained at the Ford dealer
since it was new.

It's also had bodywork done due to a couple of small collisions (rear bumper
and side door). Those were done by the dealer's body shop. And the throttle
body was recently replaced as well.

Neither the body shop nor the service center claim to have any knowledge or
notes as to why the converter was previously cut and welded.

Any insight you can offer as to why the converter would have been replaced
off the record would be greatly appreciated.

4 Answers
9,715

brotherben answered 6 years ago

I'd take it to another shop to have it replaced but keep the old one to check if it's been gutted out. That material is valuable at scrap yards and with that not being on record at the dealership, it sounds like an employee's stealing that off customers. Check with friends and relatives who's had service done there, if they're cats have been cut and welded, personal belongings missing, standard parts in place of performance parts, etc. But from a neutral point of view and not just pointing fingers at the dealership, does anyone you live with or work with that has access to a welder and your suv?

1 people found this helpful.
Best Answer Mark helpful

wtfbeachford answered 6 years ago

Thanks, brotherben. In talking with the dealer, it appears the cat was cut at the pipes. As you pointed out, probably stolen and replaced at some point. No way to tell when or where. My guess is at the dealer or collision center since the part was replaced without my knowledge and I'm the original owner. Could have even been at the dealer before purchase. They're sending it to the collision center for replacement since it now has to be welded. Thanks for taking the time to answer!

Mark helpful

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