catalytic converter on V70 in NY

I'd like to know if someone can confirm what I'm being told from a
muffler shop. I have a 98 V70 AWD.

The pipe that extends from the back of the catalytic converter broke
off yesterday, due to rust. The estimate that I rec'd is that I need
a new catalytic converter because in NY state, the law states that you
cannot weld onto one and the cost is $1175 "for everything." He said
that the rest of the system was solid, but the converter is special
order and could be in in a few days.

Can anyone confirm the law?

Does the price seem common (western New York area)? I see on the net
that I can get a converter from anywhere from $250 up, but there do
seem to be details that I would not be able to account for, such as
what other hardware may be necessary, the time to do the job, etc.

TIA,
Dave

 

Started calling around ... another shop states $636 + tax for the same
work, but they have not seen the car and they're right around the
corner, so I'm going to take it there for an estimate in fairness.

Are there any specific questions I should ask or "after thoughts" that
I should be aware of? I understand there is a cost, but I just want
to do some due diligence.

TIA,
Dave

 

wow...seems like fast rust...esp on a 1998...be sure
to check w/volvo dealer as volvos have a lifetime rust
warranty on body....i am not sure on exhaust system..

might be worth a call....you might look for a small, independent
welding shop to "patch things up".....see what they say...emission
laws and rules can be crazy...i am in colorado, so i don't know squat
about the ny laws and rules...good luck...

 

Just to follow up on the visit to the second shop ... they clarified
that since there was no actual problem with the catalytic converter,
there was no reason to replace it. They trimmed off the damaged end
of the pipe, reconnected it, and after we paid about $40, we were back
on the road ... quietly.

 

Thanks for the note ... I did not know aobut the warranty.

 

the dealers tout it...as a body rust warranty...i am not sure
about rust on "moving" or mechinacial parts....let us know
if your ask volvo inc.....