e39 catalytic converter - BMW Forum

bransondavis · 03-17-2012, 08:24 PM

I am replacing 1 or both cats on my '01 530i. I have several options of replacement cats. I found a set for sale on ebay in England. My dilemma is determining whether or not there is a difference between Euro cats and U.S. cats. Perhaps the difference in arrangement of steering linkage from a right side drive bmw to a left side drive bmw is different enough to require different parts? basically I need to know that the U.K. cat will fit a canadain/U.S. BMW (mine). I have contacted seller and am currently awaiting reply. If anyone has any specific information on the compatibility of the parts discussed above, please share. I am positive that the cat needs replacing. I just need to know cats from a Euro bimmer and cats from a U.S. bimmer are in fact compbaitle before completing the repair myself. Thanks.

Lord Vader · 03-18-2012, 12:21 AM

I have heard that "most" parts off a RHD car (UK), such as exhaust will not fit on a LHD car. I have heard that the exhaust is bent differently to compensate for the changes of being RHD. If your going to get Euro cats, try to get them from a LHD car and they will fit. Be careful though because if your state has smog checks you may not pass. Euro restrictions is a lot different.

brettski · 03-18-2012, 05:29 AM

Welcome to the Werkz.

Have a look at RealOEM.com Online BMW Parts Catalog
If you note the part numbers for the LHD & RHD cats and compare them, then you may have your answer. Book mark the site because its a very useful resource, and you will come back to it.

Let us all know what you find out.