I'm pretty sure my 2.5i Catalyst is whipped!

[DonnyJagaru]

As above, the CEL comes on to remind me the cat's operating temperature isn't reaching a hot enough level. It goes off when driving around town but after 15 minutes on the highway is back. This has been going on for a year now.

 

After some research online I have some questions for those whom have been down this road:

 

Q1: If the temp coming out of the cat is the same, or only slightly higher than going in, that confirms it's whipped, right?

 

 

Q2: Is there any merit in pouring a gallon of lacquer thinner in the gas tank?

 

Q3: Is there any harm trying?

 

Q4: Should I stick with OEM replacement catalyst or is aftermarket okay?

 

 

To say a CEL light on drives me crazy is an understatement. I will go insane if I replace everything and it's still on so trying to avoid this scenario.

 

 

 

Car is otherwise working fine and I must have the only 2008 crowding 200,000 miles which has never had a leaking head gasket.

 

 

TIA

[dgoodhue]

Are you getting a P420 code? Even if you are not getting that exact code, I would follow the engine diagnostic flow charts. Many time the catalytic code is a failing sensor or its an exhaust leak. Those are much more common than a failing catalytic converter.