It's time to unload my beloved 2004 G35X. However, I don't know of the best way to unload it. It appears I need a new catalytic converter and with 165,000 miles on it, I just don't want to put a new oem cat converter in it. Although I have two replacement converters from a 2004 350z I can't find a mechanic to replace the converters so I'm out $300 for buying them. I know if I sell the car privately I certainly would disclose the problem about the converter to the buyer because the check engine light would eventually come on... With a car dealer, I could care less. I suspect they would give me very little for the car anyway. Other than the cat it appears to run good. All accessories work flawlessly... power windows, locks, leather seat heaters, etc.Plus I've always kept it clean inside and out... no rust, etc. New rear calipers and brakes. Any ideas or suggestions on how to get the maximum resale value for my car? Part it out? (A pain in the ****?)... Bite the bullet and trade it in? Any unique suggestions? Thanks for your input.

 

Change them yourself? It's a PITA, but it's doable and easier than parting it out. A CEL on a car that age will really hurt the resale. It's not hard to fix, but people would be nervous and look at other cars. Why won't a mechanic replace? It's not illegal to replace them if it's broken. Any muffler/exhaust shop should do it.

 

I am told by mechanics that you cannot change a catalytic converter with a used one from another car. It must be a new oem or a new aftermarket one.

 

That is correct. It is against EPA regs to install a used converter. It must be new.

Hate to say it but there's not a whole lot of value left in your car the way it is. A private party sale will see it needs a major $$$ repair, and with high miles may chose to buy a car with lower miles and no repair needed. A dealer trade-in offer will prob be insulting, but they will ship the car to auction and you will never hear another peep about it.

You have the entire cat pipe correct? Do you have the ability to swap it out yourself?

You need to figure out the cost of the repair (with new cats) and how much that would add to the vehicle. If you can sell it for $1.5-2K more..it might be worth it. If fixing the car adds only $500 to the value..prob not worth it.