Air quality is a major concern for automakers and drivers alike, which is why a catalytic converter plays such an essential role in modern vehicles. This metal canister installed inside the exhaust system helps reduce air pollution by converting harmful elements into safer emissions that are released through your car’s exhaust. Catalytic converter replacement is usually expensive because the metals it requires for this conversion process — palladium, rhodium and platinum — are quite pricey. Catalytic converter repair is a great way to save money and still keep your car running well, but it requires you to catch the problem early.