For those of you who live in the glorious state of New York, there is a new law on catalytic converters that came into play on January 1, 2014. I strongly suggest paying attention if you live in New York because fines can range from $ 500 for the first offense to $ 26,000 for each subsequent offense. Section 177 of the federal Clean Air Act (42 USC and 7507) gives each state the right to adopt California’s Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) program standards in its own state. New York has decided to do just that. This is not a very difficult program to understand but it has certain aspects that make it complicated. This applies to all vehicles built since 1993, except for 1995 models. So; If your car was made in 1993, 1994, 1996 or any time after, this applies to you. The gist of this new law is that you can no longer install or sell used catalytic converters in any vehicle licensed in New York State. Additionally, new ones must be original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or new AMCC certified that meet CARB standards. This applies to all makes and models of vehicles that are “50 State” certified through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or CARB certification. This does not apply to pre-1993 vehicles or 1995 vehicles.
New York New York Catalytic Converters for CARB and EPA State 50 Certified Vehicles must display 2 certification seals or laser etched on opposite sides of the catalytic converter or heat shield. Each stamp or engraving must show the CARB Executive Order approval number, part number, date of manufacture, and the proper installation address. You should also check if the vehicle has the AMCC emission certification marks. Emissions certification information for your vehicle is located on the Vehicle Emission Certification Information (VECI) label located in the engine compartment of the vehicle. The engine family and emissions certification will be used to find out which AMCCs can legally be installed on your particular vehicle. There are three common places that you will find the VECI, they are the radiator bracket, the strut tower plate, and the hood.
Due to the new law, it is now illegal to sell, offer to sell, install or advertise used or recycled NY catalytic converters for any vehicle manufactured in 1993, 1994, 1996 or any later year. You are still allowed to use reclaimed catalytic converters on vehicles built before 1993 and you are still allowed to sell your used reclaimed catalytic converter on any vehicle. Installers of new CARB certified AMCCs must complete a warranty card in triplicate. The original warranty card must go to the customer, then a copy to the installer and the last copy to the converter manufacturer. Installers of new CARB-certified AMCCs must also keep a copy on file for four years. Due to the high fines, it is better to comply with the new regulations, whether you are the consumer or the retailer.