Why is I can not buy a cat for my 98 ex honda civic in California ? Does anyone know where I can order one that will pass smog ? Sure be nice to get rid of my engine light that throws a 420 code. I would appreciate any help.

 

It could be a faulty O2 sensor. Possibly either one of the two you have. Not sure how you would check it though.

 

I changed both O2's with Bosh universals. According to all forums its either them or the cat. Now i just cant find a cat.

 

is the stock cat on? If not go buy one from the honda dealer ship or just look on ebay, craigslist...

 

^ dito... ebay or craigslist or stealership if ya got enough cash.....

i just bought one off ebay... OEM cat but used but still looks good for about 100bucks.... i figure OEM quality is much better than those aftermarket direct fit cats.

 

Aren't the CA (KL) cats different from the other 49 states (KA) cats? If so, I imagine finding a used one is going to be very difficult.

OP: I think you may have to buy a new one or get very lucky while searching for a new one.

 

well ya you got a point there... i wonder what the difference is......
my cat came from cali... well shipped from cali.LOL i wonder which one i have and what the difference is... hum...

 

Yeah, that is the prob. Cali cats are diff somehow. They are CARB stamped where the other 49 states are different. I hear OBD2 cats can be even rebuilt. I'd rather just find one I can bolt on. Just haven't found where yet.

 

look on craigslist, I'm from cali(YAY Area) lol and people always have cars they are parting out. Also im sure you can find and OEM cat on craigslist. Search other areas besides yours in craigslist and see if they will ship it to you.

 

The CA Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) will find you any emissions-related part.
BAR's Emissions Parts Locator service can be reached at (800) 622-7733.