This is regarding a really bad experiance with a Desi mechanic. I have Toyota Corolla DX - 1.6 ltr. model and started showing check engine light couple of days ago. Went to this mechanic (reffered by a friend). He checked with dignostic device and the code was showing P0401. He said that Catalyc Converter needs to be replaced and quoted 170 dollars. I agreed and while in the process of replacing that he said, 99% chances are that the light will not come on again. I asked what he means, in reply he said if it comes again, we will have to clean your EGR system and / or replace your oxygen sensor. I asked him what the code P0401 meant, he said it does not clearly state anything but it could be any of this, but most likely it will be catalyc converter. To my surprise, he welded the replacement instead of taking out the piece from flanges. When asked he said if we get the original flanged one, it is about 350$ but this is the same company (magnaflow) and universal replacement which is cheaper and will be welded. He used a piece of broken hanger to weld. Anyways, he completed and asked me to pay cash in order to save tax. He charged 155 $ in total.
Just as I started driving, the light came on again. I got really upset and borrowed an Auto Repair Manual (Haynes) from a friend and referred for code P0401 and it stated"Insufficient flow in EGR detected". Clearly it meant that this was something to do with EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system and not catalyc converter. The guy cheated me by starting the repair with wrong part.
I went back to him with this manual in hand and was very upset but kept my nerves and said that the light came on again. He saw the manual in my hand and did not say anything except that he will check again. He cleaned the hoses around EGR modulator, and throttle body taking out air intake pipe (I started knowing about this terms after reffering to manual). He erased the code again and said that drive for about 55 - 60 kms because new catalyc converter needs to get used to. If the light comes again, I will have to take out EGR valve and clean it but it takes some time.
The light did not come back for about 15 - 20 kms and this morning it again came back. Now I am worried about spending extra 200 - 250 $ on EGR valve / modulator or Vaccum Switching Valve; plus labour. I will have to get this repair done because it is a very important repair related to engine emissions and performance. Also my emission test is due a month. I am now stuck with this mechanic as he started the repair on it.
I am putting this story on CD because, I dont want my fellow desis to get cheated by wrong people. I got an advise to go to Toyota Dealer repairs too but my car is not too new and do not want to spend too much money on that. But please try checking the manuals to have some basic idea what the repairs should be. I am not putting this mechanics name here as I would like to see how the complete repair goes and hoping to keep you updated on this.

.............Zhabuk................

I had the same problem in my Honda Accord 2 years ago and I went to aHonda Dealer. This is a problem with catalytic converter and it needs to be replaced , but it should be in warranty. My honda catalytic convertor was in warranty for 7 years and it should be same for Toyota too .

Please take it to a toyota dealer and see what they say the problem is. It may be covered in warranty if not atleast they will tell you what the problem is and the estimate and then you can go shopping around later for the best price .

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