Catalytic Converter Guide for the 1982-1987 Buick Skylark
Everything you need to know about choosing the right new aftermarket catalytic converter for your classic Skylark.
- Your 1982-1987 Skylark is pre-OBD-II, so you must rely on physical symptoms like power loss, rattling, or a rotten egg smell to diagnose a bad converter.
- Always fix the root cause of the failure (like an engine misfire) before installing a new converter to avoid damaging the new part.
- Walker and Magnaflow are top-tier aftermarket brands known for quality, while AP Exhaust and Eastern Catalytic are good budget-friendly alternatives.
- Most replacement converters for this vehicle are universal and will require professional installation involving cutting and welding.
Is Your Skylark's Catalytic Converter Failing?
On a car from the 1980s like your Buick Skylark, the original catalytic converter has worked hard for decades. If it fails, you'll notice. Because these vehicles are pre-OBD-II, you won't get a check engine light with a specific code. Instead, you need to watch for physical symptoms that point to a problem.
Key Symptoms of a Bad Converter:
- Sluggish Performance: The most common sign of a clogged converter is a major loss of power. Your car may struggle to accelerate, especially going uphill, because the engine can't push exhaust gases out effectively. It might feel like something is holding the car back.
- Rattling Noises: If you hear a rattling sound from under the car, it could be the ceramic honeycomb inside the converter breaking apart. These loose pieces can cause a blockage and will often sound like rocks shaking in a metal can.
- Rotten Egg Smell: A strong sulfur or rotten egg smell from the exhaust is a classic sign of a converter that isn't working correctly. It means the converter is not properly changing the chemical makeup of the exhaust gases.
- Engine Stalling: In severe cases, a completely clogged converter can create so much back-pressure that the engine can't stay running and will choke out shortly after starting.
- Excessive Heat: A blocked converter can trap a large amount of heat, making the floor of the car feel unusually warm. You can check for this with an infrared thermometer; the inlet side of a clogged converter will be significantly hotter than the outlet.
Address the Root Cause!
A catalytic converter usually fails because of another problem with the engine. Common causes include engine misfires, leaking gaskets that allow oil or coolant into the exhaust, or a rich fuel mixture. Before you install a new converter, make sure you or your mechanic have fixed the original issue, or you will likely ruin the new part quickly.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Converter
Finding a new OEM catalytic converter from GM for a vehicle of this age is highly unlikely. The market for your Skylark consists of aftermarket parts, which come in different quality tiers. Most converters for this car will be "universal fit," meaning they are designed to fit a variety of vehicles and will require some cutting and welding or clamping to install.
Brand Tiers at a Glance:
- Top Tier (Walker, Magnaflow): Walker and Magnaflow are widely regarded as the best aftermarket brands. They are known for good quality materials, like stainless steel shells, and better longevity. Mechanics often trust these brands for fitment and reliability, making them a solid choice if you plan to keep your Skylark on the road for years to come.
- Standard Tier (AP Exhaust, Eastern Catalytic): Brands like AP Exhaust and its subsidiary Eastern Catalytic offer a more budget-friendly option. For an older vehicle that may not be a daily driver, these can be a perfectly good choice. While some users report success, be aware that the fit and finish might not be as precise as the top-tier brands, and longevity can be mixed.
A Note on Universal vs. Direct-Fit
While most options for the '82-'87 Skylark will be universal, if you find a "direct-fit" model from a reputable brand, it can save significant time and money on installation. Direct-fit parts are designed to bolt right into the factory location with no modifications needed.
Cost Expectations for Your Skylark
The price you pay will depend on the brand you choose and the labor involved. Since most options are universal, installation will likely require welding, which adds to the labor cost.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Converter (Part Only) | $84 - $560 |
| Shop Labor (including welding/fabrication) | $150 - $300 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $234 - $860 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any recalls for the 1982-1987 Buick Skylark catalytic converter?
No, searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database and other records show no active recalls or common Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the catalytic converter on this specific vehicle. Given the age of the vehicle, any such campaigns would have expired long ago.
Do I need a special converter for California or New York?
For a vehicle this old (pre-OBD-II), you will typically need a Federal EPA-compliant converter, which is legal in most states. However, states like California, Colorado, New York, and Maine have stricter rules. Always check your local regulations, but most universal converters for this model year are not legal for sale or use in these states.
Can I just remove the converter and install a straight pipe?
No. Removing a catalytic converter is illegal under federal law. Your vehicle will not pass any state emissions inspections without one, and it will release significantly more pollution. While some owners in the past have used a "test pipe" for diagnostics, it is not a legal or permanent solution.
Can I install the converter myself?
If you purchase a universal-fit converter, installation requires cutting the old exhaust pipe and welding the new converter in place. This requires specialized tools and skills. A direct-fit model could be installed by a skilled DIY mechanic, but this job is often best left to a professional exhaust shop to ensure there are no leaks.
Technical Specifications
Most replacement converters for this vehicle are universal-fit and pre-OBD-II compliant. They are typically made with a stainless steel body and a ceramic substrate. An air tube may be required for some engine applications. Check your vehicle's specific exhaust configuration before ordering.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Buick Skylark: