Pollutant gases are made of harmful molecules. However, those molecules are made from harmless ingredients. Catalytic converter pumps them out by vehicle emission system. Catalytic converters change harmful substances in a car’s exhaust gasses, such as carbon monoxide, nitric oxide, etc.
A regular catalytic converter works by having the exhaust gasses flow through a ceramic honeycomb structure coated in various rare metals. Meanwhile, a high flow catalytic converter allows the more efficient flow of exhaust gasses, removing restrictions that impede performance. Vehicle owners who’ve significantly upgraded their engine power output.
What Are the Best High Flow Catalytic Converters?
With plenty of Flowmaster CAT on the market, each Flowmaster converter is ideal anyway. To us, Flowmaster 2230125 Catalytic Converter UNIV. 223 SRS. S.D. 2.50 is the best budget-friendly due to its high engine capacity. Stainless steel construction and great flow master features keep the engine safe and reduce fumes.
On the other hand, MagnaFlow 59956 Universal Catalytic Converter is the best overall pick flow master catalytic converter. It is a complete package to buy for all vehicles.
This is really important to mention even though you know that each product has its own advantages and disadvantages. For this reason, any product that fits us may not fit you. To summarize each product with a clear idea, we present each product to you so that you can perceive each product at a glance.
1. Best Overall: MagnaFlow 59956 Universal Catalytic Converter
Stainless Steel Construction, Prolonged exhaust flow, Strong and tight bond, Ribbed body to minimize expansion and distortion, fits for all vehicles.
2. Best for Budget: Flowmaster 2230125 Catalytic Converter Univ. 223 Srs. S.D. 2.50″
Durable, Efficient, Stainless construction, Wide variety of applications, Flow characteristics, Reduced exhaust fumes, Lower price without compromising quality.
3. Best For Improving performance: Flowmaster 2230130 Catalytic Converter Univ 223 Srs. S.D. 3.00″
Available for a wide variety of applications, Stainless steel construction, Ceramic honeycomb, 2-way/3-way/3-way with oxidation, Smoothly runs with 5,9L engine capacity.
4. Best For Heavy-vehicles: EPA Compliant Universal Catalytic Converter 99205HM
Direct fit applications, 99205HM helps keep the check engine light off, stainless steel construction, Metallic substrate, Ribbed body to minimize expansion and distortion
5. Best For Long Usages: AMS High-Flow Stainless Steel Catalytic Converter
legit 100% Stainless Steel construction, Up to 12 Wheel Horsepower, Includes gaskets and hardware, better fittings and finishing, Durable.
6. Best For Low Emission: Outlet Universal Fit Catalytic Converter
Ceramic substrates, Heavy-duty stainless steel construction, Offers maximum efficiency, Global Standard 3″ inside diameter inlet/outlet, Honeycomb structure.
7. Best For Rough Road: Turbo XS 02-07 WRX-STi CAT
Honeycomb structure, pure stainless steel, Hybrid Blow Off Valve, 3″ Diameter, An additional oxygen sensor.
8. Best Cheap CAT: Flowmaster 2000125 Catalytic Converter
25,000-mile warranty, High-temperature applications, High Flow 200 Cell Metallic Substrate, Pure Stainless Steel Spun Body, Compact Size and design.
9. Best For The Money: MagnaFlow OEM Grade Federal
Stainless steel construction, Model, and design compliant with Federal state laws for emission, Available for gas and diesel applications, 5 years limited warranty.
10. Best For Race Cars: Kooks Custom Headers GE-307540
Generates the most power in the industry, Uses aircraft quality steel, Race applications, Designed For Maximum Power.
10 Best High Flow Catalytic Converter Reviews
In this article, I have already presented a small part of the product reviews, where you may get all products that are best for you. This part would be more interesting for you if you want to know more about your desired product.
It will give a more clear idea of key features and pros & cons so that you have no hesitation in making the final purchase decision.
1. best overall: MagnaFlow 59956
Key features
- Stainless Steel Construction
- prolonged exhaust flow allows your engine to generate more power
- Different from any manufacturer that leads to Strongest and smoothest flowing inlet and outlet joint
- The strong and tight bond
- Ribbed body to minimize expansion and distortion
MagnaFlow is an American engineered and manufactured company that is superior in the catalytic converter and exhaust technology. MagnaFlow uses both Ceramic and Metallic substrates with different combinations of cell density and wall thickness to meet vehicle-specific requirements.
The MagnaFlow universal spun catalytic converters are literally manufactured around the catalyst, which is securely tucked inside and necks down to thicker-gauge material. It maximizes durability. They are available in different-diameter inlets and outlets to match your specific exhaust system.
It will make a difference that you can feel the car will respond better. Besides, it will sound different. Moreover, It would be recommended if you want better performance. Most importantly, MagnaFlow universal spun catalytic converters will fit any application.
Pros
- Works on gas and diesel engines.
- Customizable
- Fantastic flow
- Each inlet is tailored to the size of the converter body
Cons
- Cutting and welding required
- Pretty hard to installation
2. best for budget: Flowmaster 2230125
Key features
- Stainless Steel Construction
- Available for a wide variety of applications
- Engineered to keep the “MIL” light off
- Excellent flow characteristics
- Best for cars with 5,9L engine capacity
These high-quality catalytic converters are manufactured in the USA and feature stainless steel outer shell construction for maximum durability. The internal materials and precious metal loading have been carefully engineered for maximum efficiency and to avoid malfunctions common with lower-quality converters.
Every car has a particular size of pipe installed by the manufacturer. In case you bought this and not fittable, then give it a custom setup for your vehicle. If the sizes are correct and there is room for it under your car, there is no reason it shouldn’t work.
A better catalytic converter offers your smooth and enjoyable roar. Moreover, this leads to an efficient engine that makes your road pollution-free. Meanwhile, the emission system works fantastically.
Pros
- Excellent flow
- Robust Construction.
- MIL light off
Cons
- Pretty hard to install
3. best for improving performance: Flowmaster 2230130
Key features
- Most importantly, available for a wide variety of applications
- Better Stainless steel construction
- Ceramic honeycomb
- 2-way/3-way/3-way with oxidation
- Smoothly runs with 5,9L engine capacity
A better flow catalytic converter might be a straightforward way to improve the performance of a car or truck without increasing your emissions output.
Flowmaster 223 Series universal catalytic converter can be the best pick on the market among the huge collection of the converter.
The manufacturer always focuses on the internal substrate material. Besides, maximum efficiency to avoid “MIL” code issues that are common with lower quality converters.
When you are in need of building a custom exhaust or just need a replacement, Flowmaster universal catalytic converters are just what you need. Additionally, A better catalytic converter offers your smooth and enjoyable engine starting. Moreover, this leads to an efficient engine that makes your road pollution-free.
Pros
- Meets national emission requirements
- Gain more horsepower at higher RPMs
- Engineered to keep the “MIL” light off
Cons
- Installation
- Sometimes sound loud
4. best for heavy-vehicles: MagnaFlow Universal Cat
key features
- 99205HM helps keep the check engine light off
- stainless steel construction
- Metallic substrate
- Ribbed body to minimize expansion and distortion
The manufacturer is working on improving catalytic converters for over 30 years. The universal catalytic converter is one that may fit a wide variety of vehicles and applications. The company uses both Ceramic and Metallic substrates with different combinations of cell density and wall thickness to meet vehicle-specific requirements.
MagnaFlow 99205HM Converter has a tubular body fabricated from one whole section. It’s spun tightly around the ceramic catalyst to keep the ceramic in proper alignment. The modern MagnaFlow offers a layer of protection from heat damage.
It will make a difference that you can feel at the beginning of the use. Besides, it will sound different than you always wanted it to sound. Moreover, It would be recommended if you want better performance. Most importantly, MagnaFlow Universal Catalytic Converters form the basic building blocks for a comprehensive line of direct-fit applications.
Pros
- Works on gas and diesel engines.
- Customizable
- Fantastic flow
- Each inlet is tailored to the size of the converter body
Cons
- Cutting and welding required
- Pretty hard to installation
5. best for long usages: AMS High-Flow Stainless Steel
Key features
- legit 100% Stainless Steel construction
- To 12 Wheel Horsepower gains
- make sure long life for using Steel core catalytic converter
- Includes gaskets and hardware
- better fittings and finishing
The mentioned catalytic converter obtained priority because of its prolonged history of durability and performance with industry-leading engineering.
Seems like all other AMS exhaust products, this catalytic converter is TIG welded with 100% 304 stainless components, including the flanges. Designed to bolt up to a stock exhaust system, AMS System, or any other aftermarket exhaust compatible with stock downpipe or cat-back.
They offer simple installation, whether every single engine has its flagship installation system. However, AMS gives the easiest way to build conditions.
More importantly, the manufacturer focused on horsepower, AMS High-Flow Cat; you can expect to see up to 12 Wheel Horsepower gains over the stock catalytic converter without even re-tuning the ECU.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Bolts right in place of the factory catalytic converter
- Steel core catalytic converter
- wide applications on lancer and Mitsubishi
Cons
- High price
- create sounds after a certain times
6. best for low emission: Outlet Universal Fit
Key features
- Ceramic substrates
- Heavy-duty stainless steel construction
- Offers maximum efficiency.
- Global Standard 3″ inside diameter inlet/outlet
- Honeycomb structure
Autosaver is a renowned engineering workshop for manufacturing catalytic converters across the universe. They not only keep focusing on converter but also efficiency and performance and the most preference on emission control without compromising on the flow rate as well.
Meanwhile, pure stainless steel of the outer shell makes sure long durability. Besides, The design and aesthetic are slightly different, but that doesn’t decline any less efficiency.
When you are in need of building a custom exhaust or just need a replacement, AUTOSAVER88 ATCC0010l catalytic converters are just what you are looking for. Additionally, A better catalytic converter offers your smooth and enjoyable smooth car sound. Moreover, this leads to an efficient engine that makes your road pollution-free with better performance.
Pros
- 3.0 inches outer diameter exhaust pipe.
- Non CARB compliant
- Mostly available for 1996 later vehicles
- Maximum flow
Cons
- Not legal in California
- Installation difficulty
- Need welding
7. best for the rough road: Turbo X.S. 02-07 WRX-STI
Key features
- Honeycomb structure
- pure stainless steel
- Hybrid Blow-Off Valve
- 3″ Diameter
- An additional oxygen sensor
Turbo X.S. is designed especially for each vehicle. The Mentioned Exhaust Systems are all 3″, 304 Stainless Steel Steel and Titanium components are offered for some particular models. To maintain the street emission legal status, turbo might be your ultimate choice.
The best thing about the turbo high flow catalytic converter is Turbo X.S. also offers a number of components, including Exhausts, Intercoolers, Intakes, and even Stand Alone Engine Management for your turbocharged vehicle.
Stainless steel construction provides the best durability on the road while everyone is asking for a prolonged lifespan. Turbo Xs also need customized installation like any other high-flow catalytic based on vehicles. Although, every vehicle has a built-in installation system.
Pros
- Long durability
- Boost controllers
- Great emission system
Cons
- Installing difficulty
- Welding needed
- Expensive
8. best cheap cat: Flowmaster 2000125 Catalytic Converter
Key features
- High-temperature applications
- High Flow 200 Cell Metallic Substrate
- Pure Stainless Steel Spun Body
- Compact size and design
The manufacturing company Flowmaster guarantees that you will not face any kind of Malfunction Indicator Light turning on at the phase of use. The company also claims to be compatible with a wide variety of applications and vehicles.
The manufacturer always focuses on the internal substrate material. Besides, maximum efficiency to avoid “MIL” code issues that are common with lower quality converters.
200 series are able to meet your requirements on the street and satisfy you. The manufacturer always focuses on the internal substrate material. Besides, maximum efficiency to avoid “MIL” code issues that are common with lower quality converters.
Flowmaster 2000125 is fairly lightweight with a vintage design. However, the installation problem can be noticeable. Like other catalytic converters, it claims welding and extra manpower.
Pros
- 5-year/50,000-mile case warranty
- Follow CARB regulations
- Gain more horsepower at higher RPMs
Cons
- Installation problem
- welding and manpower needed
- Sometimes create noise
9. best for the money: MagnaFlow OEM Grade Federal
Key features
- Stainless steel construction
- Model and design compliant with Federal state laws for emission
- Available for gas and diesel applications
The company named MagnaFlow has been designed specifically to cater to gas-based or diesel-based vehicles, which is limiting, but it makes up for it in other ways. Magnaflow catalytic converter 51204 simple design by itself. The main benefit of the universal catalytic converter is that one unit may cover a wide variety of vehicle makes and models. This direct-fit51204 catalytic converter pipe has been designed to fit the 2008-2012 Honda Accord, 1999-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and additional vehicles.
When it comes to talking about installation, it seems quite confusing each time. There’s a manual book to guide the owner to make sure how you should process the installation. Customization is always in demand for professionals.
The 51204 catalytic converter pipe meets EPA requirements for sure. Universal Catalytic Converter 51204 offers to keep the check engine light off. Fantastically, you don’t need to worry about your vehicle’s performance, and strongly it keeps the environment pollution-free.
Pros
- Honeycomb structure
- Ceramic substrate Material
- Fair price
Cons
- Heavyweight
- Installation difficulties
10. best for the race car: Kooks Custom Headers GE-307540
Key features
- generates the most power in the industry
- Uses aircraft quality steel
- Race applications
- Designed For Maximum Power
Kooks Headers high flow catalytic converter is the most horsepower production header and exhaust system for over 45 years. The manufacturer gives importance to performance and the emission system as well. Besides, this gear is also applied off-road and races stunningly.
It is fairly lightweight and possesses a compact design. Kooks GE 307540 universal fit model, which can be good or bad depending on how you look at it. It will always be recommended for street driving with little or no horsepower loss and a deeper exhaust tone. Besides, Kooks Headers’ high-flow catalytic converters feature durable stainless steel construction.
Each car has a specific size of pipe installed initially. If you buy any customizable exhausts that is not fittable, then give it a custom setup for your vehicle. After the adjustable Size, there is room for it under your car. There is no reason it shouldn’t work.
Pros
- Warranty
- Race tested
- High Flow Substrate
Cons
- Installation difficulties
- State limitations
Pros and Cons of High Flow Cats Comparison Table
Using a high flow catalytic converter gives extra pleasure for great sound, longer life, and lower emission rate. However, every coin has two sides. High-flow cats have pros and cons. Here is a table to give you clear thought at a glance.
| Pros | Cons | |
| Flow characteristics | Excellent | |
| Long life | Long-life performances | |
| construction | Stainless steel construction | |
| price | Compared to some catalytic converters it is expensive | Expensive |
| weight | Less weight than another catalytic converter | |
| Legal to use | Not legal to use in all states. like, California | |
| Speed | Might cut down the speed for some vehicles | |
| Exhaust system | Lower exhaust fumes | |
| Warranty | Yes | |
| installation | Need professional | |
| Universal fit | Yes | |
| EPA (Environment-Friendly Agency) | Yes | |
| Sound | Excellent |
Best high flow catalytic converter FAQ
Before you decide on a specific catalytic converter, It is very important whether it is even compatible with your car. Besides, checking the emission rate of your car is more important. You might have some asking that you need to be answered before you lean on a decision.
Q: What Are High Flow Cats?
Catalytic converters are a common way to remove pollution from cars. A high-flow catalytic converter functions similarly to a normal catalyst but is tasked with catalyzing the exhaust flow at quicker speeds, which means that it has more material in its configuration and this results in increased reaction rates for quickening removal processes.
Q: Are High Flow Catalytic Converters Legal in California?
To be legal, your new catalytic converter must come with the CARB “sticker” or it can’t replace an original equipment manufacturer part. There are no high-flow cats that have this certification and aren’t also labeled as being direct replacements for old ones without stickers on them.
Q: What Is the Best Loudest High Flow Catalytic Converter?
Many people are interested in the loudest high-flow catalytic converters. You’re looking for the loudest, most efficient high-flow catalytic converter? Magnaflow is always number one.
Q: What Is the Best 3 Inch High Flow Catalytic Converter?
There are a lot of different types and models for 3-inch high-flow catalytic converters out there. One popular brand is Flowmaster, but before you buy one it’s important to know what type your car needs so that they can be properly installed in order not to damage any other parts on its engine or block airflow too much when driving at higher speeds with this kind of equipment.
Q: What Is the Best Universal High Flow Catalytic Converter?
There are many high-performance catalytic converters on the market, but what makes a universal one? If you want to know which is best for your car then look no further than Flowmaster. This company has been crafting exhausts that provide an excellent balance between performance and sound.
Q: What Is the Best High Flow Catalytic Converter With an O2 Sensor?
Now you can choose between Flowmaster or Magnaflow for a high-flow catalytic converter with an oxygen sensor.
Q: Is Flowmaster louder than MagnaFlow?
It is really difficult to compare with each other. However, this is made easier when we define each item significantly. Of course, the Flowmaster produces sound louder than the MagnaFlow.
Q: Do high-flow cats make a difference?
The simple question is yes. The high-flow cats make a difference by providing excellent sound, long life, stainless steel, lower exhausting fumes, and excellent features
Q: Is a high-flow catalytic converter worth it?
A catalytic converter is an exhaust emission control device that reduces toxic gases from your vehicles. It depends on car use. Some converters increase horsepower and reduce toxic gas emissions. Besides, it keeps a partial role to roar an engine with a great tune. Definitely, a high-flow catalytic converter is worth it rather than any other normal catalytic converter. If you’ve made major upgrades to your engine, which are defined as increasing power by 20-30%, then a high-flow catalytic converter is for you for sure.
Q: Do high-flow cats add horsepower?
A high-flow catalytic converter provides toxic exhaust gases to get rid at a higher rate. A high-flow catalytic converter maximizes the power across the full RPM range, but you’re going to notice the surprising boost of both torque and horsepower in the lower RPM range. Plus, you’ll be reducing the toxicity of your exhaust emissions while you’re at it. Attachment of a high-flow catalytic converter is great in case your car is turbocharged or otherwise heavily modified, as the extra airflow can aid in adding more power.
Q: Does a high-flow cat increase sound?
Technically, when installing a high flow catalytic converter, you will earn some increased exhaust volume, usually around 17% louder, without any other changes to be done; when it exhausts with an extra higher rate, it is normal to generate louder sound. So yeah, high flow cat increases sound back in your car. The reason some state doesn’t allow it on the street.
Q: How long do high-flow catalytic converters last?
Well, this question is frequently asked from the beginning of the era. Most durable high-flow cats are made of pure stainless steel. This legit metal offers more lifespan than any other material, whether the average lifespan is 25k miles or most converters give five years warranty. It mainly does not depend on years but on how you are using your car while riding on the street. Upgrading your mechanism is necessary for your favorite vehicle.
Q: Do catalytic converters reduce horsepower?
The simple answer will be negative but, when you remove catalytic converters on several kinds of vehicles, they get impacted negatively. Yet, it depends on time. Finally, we can jump on the asked question’s answer catalytic converters do not reduce horsepower, but remove keep the impact on it.
Q: Will a new catalytic converter improve performance?
The catalytic converter is a vital part of a car. It is built in the exhaustive system but leads to performance as well. Meanwhile, it keeps a role in performance. Moreover, a high flow cat increases the gas mileage and the car’s performance. To improve the emission and reduction system better, the car should be upgraded and tuned regularly. A single high-flow cat works properly but using both is better for performance.
Final Words
We have discussed the 10 best high-flow catalytic converters on the market right now. Every high-flow catalytic converter out there is the best in any way, and the ones we mentioned are especially the best. So we believe that it really helps you choose your ideal and ensures you a smooth journey
See also:
- Davico Catalytic Converter Review [2023]
- Bosal Catalytic Converter Review [2023]
- Eastern Catalytic Converter Reviews (2023)
- Catalytic Converter In California Following Rules [2023]
- Catalytic Converter For Honda Accord (Review) In 2023
- Bosal Exhaust Review & FAQ [2023]
- Best Catalytic Converter For BMW Review Of 2023
