How to Change Catalytic Converter Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2015 / Chevrolet Sonic 2012-2016

🔴 In this video I will show you how to change your catalytic converter on a 2011 Chevrolet Cruze.
This procedure is the same for the Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2015, and Chevrolet Sonic 2012-2016. For this Model, the exhaust manifold and the Catalytic converter comes as one unit. We will also replacing the exhaust manifold gasket and the gasket between the converter and the flex pipe. I will also show you the different tools I used for this job and all the size of sockets that you will be needing.
Enjoy the video! Thank you.
🔩 Parts And Tools List Below !
TOOLS
🔸Basic Socket Set amzn.to/37fXtvr
🔸Impact Socket Set amzn.to/3qWXbRZ
🔸3/8” Ratchet amzn.to/2Wm9Uzr
🔸220 Grit Sandpaper: amzn.to/3qWb82u
🔸Blue Shop Towels: amzn.to/3mjfD3G
🔸Torch: amzn.to/3migstB
🔸Vise Grips: amzn.to/34fu4j5
🔸24 mm Socket (Oil Filter Removal): amzn.to/384N7Ob
🔸Cordless Ratchet: amzn.to/2WftmxZ
🔸E Socket Set (Female Torx): amzn.to/3gUYmgk
🔸Oxygen Sensor Socket: amzn.to/3nkNoDa
🔸DeWalt Impact Wrench: amzn.to/3acyJpG
PARTS
🔹Catalytic Converter amzn.to/3aVGSzu

[@OneTrickTech]

Tools And Parts List Below! Basic Socket Set amzn.to/37fXtvr Impact Socket Set amzn.to/3qWXbRZ 3/8” Ratchet amzn.to/2Wm9Uzr 220 Grit Sandpaper: amzn.to/3qWb82u Blue Shop Towels: amzn.to/3mjfD3G Torch: amzn.to/3migstB Vise Grips: amzn.to/34fu4j5 24 mm Socket (Oil Filter Removal): amzn.to/384N7Ob Cordless Ratchet: amzn.to/2WftmxZ E Socket Set (Female Torx): amzn.to/3gUYmgk Oxygen Sensor Socket: amzn.to/3nkNoDa DeWalt Impact Wrench: amzn.to/3acyJpG

[@NORIaquaCh]

A pro tip on removing the exhaust manifold is to remove the radiator fan. It's held on by two small torx screws on the top left and right corners of the fan. This gives more clearance when removing the exhaust manifold.

[@SHORTII913]

Thanks this helped big time.!

[@bobbymiller8563]

I have a 2014 Chevy Cruze with 1.4L engine it has 180,000 mile. I have been getting a P0420 code. It would go away and come back. I fixed it just by disconnecting the Negative side on the battery 1st. Now find the computer it’s on the side where the battery is. It’s has 3 connectors on it. I disconnected all 3 connectors and cleaned each side male and female connector with CRC 05103 QD Electronic Cleaner. Let it dry 15 minutes. I plugged all 3 back in. I installed negative battery cable. I started and drove the car 50 miles. So far it good. We will see.

[@garygardner7603]

Awesome video with excellent step by step instructions. Thank you for sharing!!

[@dmv560]

The best video tutorial by far 👏 👌 Thank you.

[@alialsaedi9166]

Thank you for making this video.

[@josefranciscoesquertalaman3827]

*Like !!!* excelente clase saludos desde Sonora México

[@frankzee111]

This cruze is a non turbo y'all. Either 1.8 or 2.4.... Poster, please add engine size in description so people can find this. Nice vid btw

[@charlil5164]

I have the same exact car. Same problem. My car is starting to hesitate with gas when fuel gets low. Mechanic wants to “unclog” the cat but I’ve done my research and I think it’s best I just get it changed. May I please get the link on where you got yours from ?

[@OneTrickTech]

www.ebay.com/itm/FOR-11-16-CHEVY-CRUZE-LIMITED-SONIC-1-8L-CATALYTIC-CONVERTER-EXHAUST-MANIFOLD/382969597648?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

[@charlil5164]

And there was no issue after this repair ? Being that it’s an aftermarket part . Also did your car do that as well ? Hesitate or have a delayed response when pushing on the gas

[@OneTrickTech]

So the reason for my repair was that I had a P0420 engine code, which is [Catalyst System Efficiency below threshold] and it turns out that the cat was finished. I did not have a delayed response when pushing the gas. In your case, I think your symptoms could come from fuel delivery issues, air restrictions and possibly your cat like you said. You will need to diagnose more to confirm your problem. Hope that helps.

[@Gabriel.4190]

OneTrickTech will this process work for the 1.4 LUV turbo engine?

[@OneTrickTech]

@@Gabriel.4190 No the procedure won't be the same.

[@duanerykhus9425]

Thank you :)

[@seanp777]

I may need to do this on a 2008 Saturn Astra 1.8l, think it will be similar.

[@razvanepcs]

Thank you.

[@BADGALCIN]

Thank you thank you for this video 🙏 I have the same P0420 code and I have a 2015 1.4L 4cyl flex it’s driving fine but the check engine came on, would the same part work for my model? Would I have to get anything in addition if I would like to change the gaskets as well? If you have the link for those please share it!

[@OneTrickTech]

Hey there, since you have the 1.4 turbocharged engine, the parts wont be the same. The catalytic converter on your model is directly attached to the turbocharger. So if you do need to change it you'll need new gaskets and new bolts maybe since exhasut bolts tend to rust and disintegrate! Here's a link to the part you may need for your car! www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/chevrolet,2015,cruze,1.4l+l4+turbocharged,3308749,exhaust+&+emission,catalytic+converter,5808 Hope that helps!

[@BADGALCIN]

@@OneTrickTech thank you! and these come with the bolts & gaskets as well?

[@OneTrickTech]

most of them always comes with the new gaskets but not always new bolt. If you need new bolts, I suggest to get them thru a dealaershiip (if you live near one) or thru a GM original parts online store. www.gmpartsonline.net/v-2015-chevrolet-cruze--lt--1-4l-l4-gas/engine--turbocharger-and-components Glad to help! Let me know if you have other questions!

[@dannyzamudio1252]

@@OneTrickTech how much did you pay for the catalytic converter?

[@OneTrickTech]

@@dannyzamudio1252 about 400$

[@waggayaawd3835]

Why p0420 keeps coming back after changing converter on 2014 Chevy Cruze l.4 l turbo

[@OneTrickTech]

unfortunately it comes back because of aftermarket converter are not made as well as the OEM one.

[@shantelle2735]

Good info, thank you!

[@LOLONO666]

how do we know which of the rear or front is bad

[@OneTrickTech]

its always the front because it has a oxygen sensor to monitor its performance. The rear one has no sensors near by, so its only to help with emissions.

[@gabesz97]

Did you new CAT smoked after replacement? Far as i can tell there is no leak its like the whole cat is burning something off and im a bit conffused

[@OneTrickTech]

It might just be some oil they use to prevent it from rusting when the ship the part to you. Or check if there is some sort of sticker (like a company sticker) that is stuck to the CAT, if its a new part there might be one. It should stop after the engine has been running for a while. If it's still smoking, check for oil leaks coming from the filter housing.

[@sunnyboow4774]

Hello! Has P0420 code appeared again after changing catalyc converter? Have Chevy Sonic 2015, 1.8LT, always get this code and going to change ctalyc. Looking for good one. Thx

[@OneTrickTech]

Unfortunately yes. You have to get the Original Converter for this car because the aftermarket ones are not strong enough. Original one is more expensive though.

[@sunnyboow4774]

@@OneTrickTech thanks for your answer)

[@mikeedwards2448]

Same changing mine today

[@lightoflife6593]

@@OneTrickTech Mine was replaced with an original and the P0420 still reappeared. Oxygen sensors are also new. What else could it be?

[@OneTrickTech]

@@lightoflife6593 probably the ECM is bad or some wiring issues on the downstream oxygen sensor. If everything is new and OEM, then I have a feeling that the ECM is just not reading the signals. You would have to do some testing at the ECM to confirm.

[@KingnBanter]

I hope you need to change your head gasket before I do.. Great Instructional video. Out of curiosity, how many km/mi are on yours? Just hit 217,000 mi on my '13

[@OneTrickTech]

Could be a great idea for a future video! But mine only has 99000 km which is only 61,000 miles and its a 2011 =). I dont do much driving but yet i changed quite a few things on it already.

[@ny152cj]

Samuel Adams ... Mine just turned 319K and gonna to replace Exhaust Manifold and Catalytic Converter from Pacesetter.. Gonna to be fun job!

[@diegogonzalez6099]

@@ny152cj did you end up replacing and did you go with pacesetter ? How well did it work

[@milosmilekic6636]

Please tell me is the new catalytic converter genuine or aftermarket? I have to do the same thing on my Opel Astra with A1.6XER engine and only 90,000 km... And I'm in a dilemma of whether to buy new aftermarket or genuine but used converter...

[@OneTrickTech]

Hey there, I used an aftermarket cat converter, they are cheaper but sometimes you'll have some fitment issues but mine turned out okay. If you get genuine , they are more expensive but the fitment is always perfect.

[@milosmilekic6636]

@@OneTrickTech Understood. Thank you for the quick reply.

[@jeffreydesormeaux3539]

I hope you respond. How hard would it be to replace the second catalytic converter under the car? I'm talking about the one that is on the exhaust pipe under the car

[@OneTrickTech]

The one under the car would be a lot easier then the one I did in this video. Here's a picture of the part you're talking about. I think there 7 bolts to take out, 1 oxygen sensor and 2 exhaust hangers to remove. www.gmpartsstore.com/oem-parts/gm-converter-and-pipe-94529345?c=Zz1leGhhdXN0LXN5c3RlbSZzPWV4aGF1c3QtY29tcG9uZW50cyZsPTEmbj1Bc3NlbWJsaWVzIFBhZ2UmYT1jaGV2cm9sZXQmbz1jcnV6ZSZ5PTIwMTEmdD1scyZlPTEtOGwtbDQtZmxleA%3D%3D Hope that helps!

[@jeffreydesormeaux3539]

@@OneTrickTech great! So it actually doesn't involve welding like my mechanic told me 😂😂. He might have just been speaking in general terms but still. I trust him but still

[@jeffreydesormeaux3539]

@@OneTrickTech I appreciate it!

[@jeffreydesormeaux3539]

@@OneTrickTech one other question. Do you usually have to replace both cats? I'm getting a p0300 code constantly with the check engine light constantly disappearing and reappearing. It's not blinking but it periodically disappears & reappears. I was told by them that my o2 sensors are running hot or something like that and that my cats might be going out

[@OneTrickTech]

if you get a P0420 code then you only have to replace the front cat. Most of the time the rear cat is fine, (unless its clogged and you notice a loss of power in your car). You have a P0300 which is a misfire, could be ignition coil, plugs, vaccum leak, or fuel delivery issues. If its starts to blink then you need to fix it asap cause that could damage both of your cats.

[@mehmetfkose]

Do you have any idea if cat converter can cause car to shake during gear changes? Sometimes when I’m picking up speed it is shaking specially on 3-4th gear and 2-3rd. Any help is appreciated

[@OneTrickTech]

Im not familiar with those symptoms, could be a transmission issue. The symptoms of a bad cat converter is lack of power during acceleration, a start/stall conditions and emission code (P0420). Hope that helps.

[@juansaydeflores890]

bad motor mounts

[@butchworm7793]

Is it possible to do this without taking the manifold off too? Dropping the cat out the bottom?

[@OneTrickTech]

the manifold and the cat is one piece, and you can only take it out from the top. If you have the 1.4 turbo engine the setup is different, the cat is attached to the turbo on that model. the one im doing is the 1.8L engine. Hope that helps!

[@butchworm7793]

@@OneTrickTech thanks so much!!

[@emmarie7352]

Same problem for me I have a 2014 1.4 lt turbo Cruze that needs catalytic converter replaced 😭

[@backtonewdetailing]

Mine too how much did you paid to fix it

[@lmezy25]

Same just hit 80k i neda find a repair in the low my warranty doesn't cover it

[@Xmanu_RR]

hi. the video has been around for a long time. but I needed the OEM references for the nuts etc. please.. I didn't want to be installing a new manifold

[@ftwahah8241]

Everyone that’s watches the video he is the man! Step by step can’t complain. Definitely subscribed boss🫡✔️

[@MSLubis]

Any video inside catalytic you opened?

[@guaping2012]

When you changing catalytic converter did you put a new up stream oxygen sensor too?

[@OneTrickTech]

No I kept the same one. You dont need to change it

[@fernandogodina505]

Will pass smog

[@jlstep6]

You didn’t list the exhaust manifold gasket part you used. I ask because I just replaced mine and it is smoking. Wondering if it is just a burn in part of the process or if I have it on wrong.

[@OneTrickTech]

The one I use came with the aftermarket converter, so I don't have a specific part number. A bit of smoke is normal until the new gasket has time to break in. The OEM one is [ GM GENUINE 55573805 ] if you feel like the aftermarket one isn't sealing properly.

[@davidortiz6847]

This guy Video made me fall asleep just woke up that power gun goes slower then me doing it by hand literally

[@OneTrickTech]

wish I had your hands

[@bostoncampbell3871]

I have 2014 Chevy Cruze LT 1.4L turbo - will this video be the same procedure as replacing the part?

[@OneTrickTech]

No the procedure wont be the same. For that model, you might have to remove the turbocharger to get to the catalytic converter, but im not sure. The cat is attached to the exhaust manifold with a clamp. Not like the 1.8L which is welded to the exhaust manifold.

[@kkrollingskkrollings3173]

What is the name of that collient pipe directory under the manifold you took off on top of the engine. I changed my thermostat/ housing etc.. and now that pipe is leaking. I can't afford to put it in a garage right now. I maybe tighted the bolts to tight were the pipe joins under the thermostat. Can anyone please help and I'm having trouble removing the heat shield

[@Lovesick9186]

What’s the part number for the manifold catalytic converter?

[@Krutchhh]

Online i ordered a CAT w/o the exhaust maniflold, will i be able to remove the old one and attach it to the new CAT. Probably gonna have to use the old gasket too. is that fine

[@OneTrickTech]

The CAT and exhaust manifold are welded together on the 1.8L chevrolet cruze. Unless you have the 1.4L turbo, the CAT is separate from the exhaust manifold. Depends on what engine you have

[@bmffafo5004]

The one you ordered was probably the rear Cat under the car near the back. If it is set up for bolts on each end and has a hanger attached that model is for the rear.

[@ganidelumban2618]

Anyone help me. Ive got P2096 and P0668 I’m thinking replacing the catalytic converter

[@zachwesoja1874]

What kind of sandpaper did you use?

[@OneTrickTech]

I used 220 grit

[@markrimedio5085]

great instruction. I"m getting codes 420 p2101 and 2176 420 is emissions and other do have to do with the throttle systme and ocm. Question I start the car and it drives great for awhile then shuts down to limp mode and the traction light on the dashboard comes on. Any ideas?

[@OneTrickTech]

Hard to say, maybe a lost of communication with the 5v reference circuit. You will need more digging.

[@markrimedio5085]

@@OneTrickTech Should I do a full diagnostic? Cost about 100 bucks and it will pinpoint real issue right? Thx for responding

[@OneTrickTech]

100%. It will save you some much time and money trying to guess. Bring it to someone whose a diagnostics specialist.

[@kylekawolski5174]

Had same issue, came to conclusion that the MAF sensor gave out causing fuel to be dumped into the cat. In result left the Cruze running rich. Replacing 02's, plugs, MAF, and cat/exhaust manifold to hopefully fix it.

[@russkaine]

i have a 2012 1.4 with turbo...do i have to remove the turbo to change my CAT out?

[@OneTrickTech]

yes the cat is attached to the turbo on those models

[@bizforall]

Is it one or two oxygen sensors? On Sonic LT

[@OneTrickTech]

2 sensors but the second one is further down

[@mikecano2759]

Can you take out the header without removing the post

[@OneTrickTech]

What do you mean by post? The headers and catalytic converter are one unit.

[@ijustvibe6095]

the 2011 cruze only has ONE CATALYTIC CONVERTER?

[@OneTrickTech]

2

[@slmzcortez3023]

Can you send me a list of tools and anything else you used to remove the catalytic converter. thanks

[@OneTrickTech]

-oxygen sensor socket -10mm socket -11mm socket -12mm socket -24mm socket to remove the oil filter -E14 socket -E12 socket (female torx) -E7 socket (for the exhaust manifold studs if only the 10mm nut comes off) -3/8'' ratchet -1/2'' ratchet +extension -220 grit sandpaper -torch -cordless ratchet (makes the job easier and faster)

[@slmzcortez3023]

OneTrickTech Thank you!

[@420spoods]

This is gold! Best video on the whole planet on how to perform this replacement.

[@cobe1mllc]

Chevy sonic is jerking when idling and acceleration only code I have is p0420 what should I do I tried cataclean

[@OneTrickTech]

Might have a clogged cat converter. Do you lack power when accelerating?

[@cobe1mllc]

@@OneTrickTech no still got good power just jerking when idling and acceleration around 50mph

[@OneTrickTech]

Hard to say. Might have a air restriction or fuel delivery problem. If you have no misfire codes, I'd check air filter and throttle plate if they are excessively dirty.

[@cobe1mllc]

@@OneTrickTech ok preciate it I will

[@Alejandra-cv7rj]

I might have to get a air tool to remove my sockets from the cat I tryed removing the 8 blots that using a T socket only problem only the top part of the bolt came out the rest remains inside i notice this for 6 out of 8 bolts so I'll be using a socket to take them out problems the bolts will be useless to reuse. Anyone else had a similar problem?

[@OneTrickTech]

If the bolt are stripped then you should get new ones from the dealership thats my best advice imo.

[@tonymwoodson]

Hi, thanks for this post. Just want to confirm that the cat is welded to the manifold on the original? I mean, once you take the cat and manifold out does the cat unscrew from the manifold or do you have to cut it off and weld it? I have to replace my cat on my 2012 and may do it myself but I don't have a welder. Or maybe they sell it cat and manifold already welded?

[@OneTrickTech]

yeah for this car, the cat and the manifold are welded together. The new cat comes ready to install, no welding or cutting required.

[@tonymwoodson]

@@OneTrickTech sorry I am misunderstanding. If they are welded how does the new cat come ready to install no welding? Wouldn't it need to be welded where the old one was cut off? Thank you

[@OneTrickTech]

the new cat comes with all the welding needed, like from the factory. In the video I am not cutting or welding anything because this car model doesn't require that. to replace the cat/exhaust manifold, you have to remove all the bolts I showed in the video. www.ebay.com/itm/FOR-11-16-CHEVY-CRUZE-LIMITED-SONIC-1-8L-CATALYTIC-CONVERTER-EXHAUST-MANIFOLD/382969597648?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649 Heres is a picture of the new cat I installed, as u can see, all the welding is done by the manufacturer. Its a (bolt on) parts meaning its ready to install as is, which makes the job much easier. Hope that clears things up, let me know.

[@tonymwoodson]

@@OneTrickTech Thank you for the info. I did not realize yours was the 1.8 lt. I have a 2012 1.4 lt Turbo. I was able to just unscrew and detach. I appreciate your post.

[@epicwinning18]

When replacing the header, is it common to get a check engine light after install?

[@OneTrickTech]

its not common make sure you put back all electrical connectors like the oxygen sensor.

[@deannagonzales8433]

How much would that cost???

[@OneTrickTech]

If you do it yourself around 500$. At a shop it would cost close to 1500$