Catalytic Converter for Toyota Highlander (2001-2003) 3.0L Front Center & Rear

Direct-Fit Replacement Catalytic Converter Set for 2001-2003 Toyota Highlander (XU20)

What it Does: The direct-fit catalytic converter set replaces the aged factory exhaust converters on the 2001-2003 Highlander to resolve catalyst efficiency DTCs and restore OE exhaust gas velocity.

The Stock Toyota Highlander Catalyst Degradation

After decades of thermal cycling, factory ceramic cores on the XU20 chassis suffer from washcoat sintering, chemical contamination, and matrix breakdown. This thermal fatigue leads to internal substrate crumbling, exhaust restrictions, and persistent P0420/P0430 diagnostic trouble codes. A choked factory catalytic system introduces excessive exhaust backpressure directly at the cylinder heads, driving up combustion temperatures and strangling engine efficiency on the 1MZ-FE 3.0L V6.

The Engineering Solution

This three-piece emissions replacement assembly features durable stainless steel bodies loaded with high-efficiency ceramic honeycomb monoliths engineered to Federal EPA flow specifications. Designed to match original packaging tolerances, each component features precision-welded 2-bolt flanges, heavy-gauge inlet and outlet necks, and factory-located mounting points to guarantee true bolt-in installation. Restoring designed exhaust scavenging, these units safely manage hydrocarbon, CO, and NOx reduction without restricting exhaust gas expansion.

What's Included

• 1 Front Catalytic Converter (Part #16191: 3.5" x 3.5" x 5.25" body, 2-bolt welded flanges, 11.875" OAL)
• 1 Center Catalytic Converter (Part #641174: 2-bolt welded flange inlet/outlet with gasket stub, 21.5" OAL)
• 1 Rear Catalytic Converter (Part #16121: 4.125" x 8" round body, 2-bolt welded flange inlet, 2.25" OD outlet, 20" OAL)

Technical Specifications

Compatibility

• 2001 Toyota Highlander 3.0L V6 FWD / AWD (Base, Limited)
• 2002 Toyota Highlander 3.0L V6 FWD / AWD (Base, Limited)
• 2003 Toyota Highlander 3.0L V6 FWD / AWD (Base, Limited)

Frequently Asked Questions & Fitment Warnings

Does this fit the XU20 Highlander?

Yes, this is a direct fit for the 2001-2003 Toyota Highlander equipped with the 1MZ-FE 3.0L V6 engine. This kit does not fit models equipped with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine.

Is this catalytic converter kit CARB-approved for California emissions?

No, this is an EPA Federal direct-fit assembly and is not legal for sale or operational use in California, Colorado, New York, or Maine.

The Toyota Caliber

Engineered for high-mileage reliability, this full replacement exhaust solution withstands extreme road-salt corrosion and severe thermal cycling while maintaining optimal engine scavenging and clean emissions performance.