How long should a Cat last?
 

Mine was replaced by the PO about 4 years ago. When I smogged it a few

months ago, it barely passed by literally 1 and 2 points for the running tests.

What are the chances of the cat going bad so quickly?

I was hoping I would get some codes from the computer saying bad O2 sensor or something but I dont have any, just that the battery has been disconnected recently, although, its only obd1.

Thanks.

How long is a rope? It depends on the quality of the cat and if the engine had other problems that caused an early failure of the cat.

lots of variables... the metals in a cat are susceptible to contamination, which is why we don't run leaded gas anymore or have high zinc levels in engine oil anymore... was it beat on? the element can break loose or rust out... lots of variables

The previous owner kept good care of the car, it was a DD.
It doesnt smoke or burn oil. I changed the plugs a few months back and one of them looked a little questionable but the engine seems to run fine.

probably not the cat then