I have a 1998 Accord. I have a faulty after-market catalytic-converter on my car at present. The original cat lasted 9 years. I had it replaced with a universal cat, which failed in warranty in and was replaced free of charge with the same; that one has now failed. My question is after having a universal cat installed is it possible to replace it with a OEM cat without having to buy the entire $3500 exhaust system?
Thank you!

 

Thirty-five-hundred dollars for a full exhaust for a 1998 Accord? Yikes! Do you have one of those rare Accords with a Flux-Capacitor or something.

Edit:
I just looked up a full OEM style replacement exhaust system for my 2001 Accord V6 (with dual exhausts) and got the following:

• Walker: $938.94
• Bosal: $853.95

I rather doubt the exhaust system for a 1998 Accord, regardless of engine, would cost significantly more.

 

I think he was talking about the price for an original Honda exhaust, which would be scary high. I would evaluate the rest of the exhaust, then replace only what is needed, especially at Honda prices. A good muffler shop should be able to fit an OEM cat to whatever you have using aftermarket piping, and that should work fine.
BUT, if you are destroying cats that quickly, maybe your engine is the root cause. Check Engine Light? Misfires?

 

^ X2

Might want to get someone to check the fuel trims.

 

What brand? I've had a Walker on for three years now with no problems. I've also heard good things about Magnaflow.