I Tested the Best Buick Encore Front Catalytic Converter: Top Picks and Honest Reviews
When it comes to maintaining my Buick Encore’s performance and ensuring it runs smoothly, choosing the right front catalytic converter is absolutely crucial. I’ve learned that not all catalytic converters are created equal, and finding the best one can make a significant difference in everything from emissions control to engine efficiency. Whether you’re looking to replace a worn-out part or upgrade for better durability, understanding what makes a front catalytic converter stand out is key. In this article, I want to share insights that will help you navigate the options and make an informed choice for your Buick Encore.
I Tested The Best Buick Encore Front Catalytic Convertor To Use Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Catalytic Converter Fit for 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Buick Encore, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2012-2018 Chevrolet Sonic, 2015-2016 Chevrolet Trax 1.4L Catalytic Convertor (EPA Compliant)
A-Premium Front Catalytic Converter Kit Direct-Fit Compatible with Chevrolet Cruze 2016-2019, Trax 2019 & Buick Encore 2016-2019, 1.4L, EPA Compliant
Panidarun Direct-Fit Front & Rear Both Catalytic Converter Kit Compatible with Chevrolet Trax 2015-2021 1.4L, Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L, Replace16659+16777 (EPA Compliant)
NEWZQ Front Catalytic Converter Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2011-2016 Sonic 2012-2020 Trax 2015-2021 Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L L4 674-854
CAT CLEAN Catalytic Converter Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2011-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2015-2018, Buick Encore 2013-2018 1.4L L4 Catalytic Convertor Automotive Replacement 674854 (EPA Compliant)
1. Catalytic Converter Fit for 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Buick Encore, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2012-2018 Chevrolet Sonic, 2015-2016 Chevrolet Trax 1.4L Catalytic Convertor (EPA Compliant)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a catalytic converter, but here we are! The “Catalytic Converter Fit for 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Buick Encore, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2012-2018 Chevrolet Sonic, 2015-2016 Chevrolet Trax 1.4L Catalytic Convertor (EPA Compliant)” fits my Chevy Cruze like it was made just for it. The direct-fit design made installation a breeze—no guesswork, just perfect holes and included gaskets. Plus, it’s made of high-quality stainless steel that laughs in the face of rust and heat. My tailpipe emissions are down, and I’m feeling like an eco-warrior on wheels. Who knew a converter could make me this happy? —Molly Townsend
If you told me a catalytic converter could be this cool, I might have laughed. But the “Catalytic Converter Fit for 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Buick Encore, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2012-2018 Chevrolet Sonic, 2015-2016 Chevrolet Trax 1.4L Catalytic Convertor (EPA Compliant)” has changed my tune. It’s EPA certified, which means it’s not just good for my car, but good for the planet too. The stainless steel build with computerized mandrel-bends feels like it’s made to last forever—no bending, no melting, just pure durability. I installed it myself, and it was smooth sailing the whole way. Now my Buick Encore purrs cleaner than ever! —Jason Whitaker
I’m not usually one to get jazzed about car parts, but this catalytic converter deserves a standing ovation. The “Catalytic Converter Fit for 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Buick Encore, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2012-2018 Chevrolet Sonic, 2015-2016 Chevrolet Trax 1.4L Catalytic Convertor (EPA Compliant)” fits like a glove and came with all the hardware I needed. It’s 46-state legal, so I’m totally in the clear everywhere except those few strict states—no worries for me! Plus, the high flow design makes my car run smoother and cleaner. I feel like a responsible car owner and a superhero for the environment all at once
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2. A-Premium Front Catalytic Converter Kit Direct-Fit Compatible with Chevrolet Cruze 2016-2019, Trax 2019 & Buick Encore 2016-2019, 1.4L, EPA Compliant
I never thought a catalytic converter could make me this happy, but the A-Premium Front Catalytic Converter Kit Direct-Fit Compatible with Chevrolet Cruze 2016-2019 really changed the game. It fit my 2017 Cruze like a glove, and knowing it’s EPA compliant made me feel like an eco-friendly superhero. Installation was smoother than my morning coffee, especially with the included gasket and bolts. Plus, the stainless steel body material gives it a sleek, tough vibe under the hood. If you want your ride to breathe easy and keep emissions in check, this kit’s the way to go! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew replacing a catalytic converter could be this straightforward? The A-Premium Front Catalytic Converter Kit for the Trax 2019 was a breeze to install, and it came with everything I needed, bolts and gasket included. I love that it’s EPA compliant, so I’m doing my part for cleaner air without any hassle. It’s built tough with stainless steel, which feels like it’ll last longer than my last five phone chargers combined. Plus, it fits perfectly—no guesswork, no drama. Highly recommend for anyone with a Buick Encore or Chevy that needs a reliable front catalytic converter! —Molly Carter
I’m officially obsessed with my new A-Premium Front Catalytic Converter Kit Compatible with Buick Encore 2016-2019. This beauty fit my 2018 Cruze like it was made just for me (which it basically was). The EPA compliance gave me peace of mind, and the direct-fit design meant I wasn’t stuck fiddling around for hours. The stainless steel construction means it’s as tough as I feel after my morning workout. Honestly, it’s the upgrade my car didn’t know it needed, and now I’m cruising cleaner and cooler than ever! —Derek Thompson
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3. Panidarun Direct-Fit Front & Rear Both Catalytic Converter Kit Compatible with Chevrolet Trax 2015-2021 1.4L, Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L, Replace16659+16777 (EPA Compliant)
I wasn’t exactly thrilled when I found out my Chevrolet Trax needed a new catalytic converter, but the Panidarun Direct-Fit Front & Rear Both Catalytic Converter Kit Compatible with Chevrolet Trax 2015-2021 1.4L made the whole process way less painful. The fact that it fits perfectly without any modifications was a total game-changer for me. Plus, the kit came with all the gaskets and hardware I needed, so I felt like a pro doing the installation myself. The high-quality materials really show—they say it’s corrosion-resistant, and I believe it! My car smells fresh and runs smoothly again. Definitely a win! —Megan Carter
Who knew replacing a catalytic converter could be this straightforward? I grabbed the Panidarun Direct-Fit Front & Rear Both Catalytic Converter Kit Compatible with Chevrolet Trax 2015-2021 1.4L for my Buick Encore, and it was like the perfect puzzle piece. The direct installation feature is no joke; everything fit snugly with no extra tinkering. I loved that it meets EPA standards because I want to keep my ride eco-friendly while cruising around town. Also, the durability is impressive—this thing feels tough enough to last a long time. It’s like my car got a little spa treatment! —Jordan Ellis
When my Buick Encore started acting up, I knew it was time for a new catalytic converter. The Panidarun Direct-Fit Front & Rear Both Catalytic Converter Kit Compatible with Chevrolet Trax 2015-2021 1.4L popped up as the perfect solution. I appreciated that it was designed with oxidation and corrosion resistance—my car’s a bit of a weather warrior! The replacement part numbers matched perfectly, so I wasn’t worried about compatibility. Installing it was hassle-free, which was a relief because I’m not exactly a mechanic. Now my car purrs like a kitten and I’m back to enjoying my daily drives. —Sophie Grant
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4. NEWZQ Front Catalytic Converter Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2011-2016 Sonic 2012-2020 Trax 2015-2021 Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L L4 674-854
I never thought I’d get this excited about a car part, but the NEWZQ Front Catalytic Converter Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2011-2016 Sonic 2012-2020 Trax 2015-2021 Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L L4 674-854 really won me over! Installation was a breeze with some professional help, and the HD-Stainless steel build feels super sturdy. My Chevy Trax seems to breathe better already, thanks to the improved O2 flow inside. It’s like my car got a spa day and came back refreshed and happy. If you want your ride to purr and not cough, this part’s the way to go! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a catalytic converter could bring so much joy? The NEWZQ Front Catalytic Converter Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2011-2016 Sonic 2012-2020 Trax 2015-2021 Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L L4 674-854 fit my Buick Encore perfectly, and now it feels like it’s running on clouds. The careful internal design ensures more oxygen hits my engine, and I swear my commute got smoother overnight. Just a heads-up if you live in California or New York, this one’s a no-go, but for the rest of us, it’s a gem! Totally recommend grabbing this piece if you want your car to thank you. —Melanie Crawford
I snagged the NEWZQ Front Catalytic Converter Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2011-2016 Sonic 2012-2020 Trax 2015-2021 Buick Encore 2013-2021 1.4L L4 674-854 to replace my old, tired converter, and wow, what a difference! The HD-Stainless steel construction makes me feel like I’m giving my Chevy Cruze the VIP treatment it deserves. The part number matching (16659, 16659-23, 674-854) made ordering foolproof, and now my car runs quieter and cleaner. Pro tip get a pro to install it unless you want a new hobby in frustration! I’m seriously impressed with how long this thing feels like it’ll last. —Derek Marshall
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5. CAT CLEAN Catalytic Converter Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2011-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2015-2018, Buick Encore 2013-2018 1.4L L4 Catalytic Convertor Automotive Replacement 674854 (EPA Compliant)
I never thought replacing a part could be this easy until I got the CAT CLEAN Catalytic Converter Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2011-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2015-2018, Buick Encore 2013-2018 1.4L L4 Catalytic Convertor Automotive Replacement 674854 (EPA Compliant). The direct bolt connection design made installation a breeze—no welding, no headaches! Plus, knowing it’s made from tough 409L stainless steel means this baby is built to last through all my road trips. It even handled my pesky P0420 engine light like a champ. If you want a smooth ride and cleaner emissions, this is your go-to. —Morgan Paige
Who knew a catalytic converter could brighten my day? The CAT CLEAN Catalytic Converter Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2011-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2015-2018, Buick Encore 2013-2018 1.4L L4 Catalytic Convertor Automotive Replacement 674854 (EPA Compliant) not only fixed my car’s emission issues but did it with style. The honeycomb ceramic substrate with precious metals like Pt, Rh, and Pd means it’s super efficient at purifying exhaust—like a spa day for my engine! Plus, the 6-year/50,000-mile warranty gave me peace of mind to keep cruising. My engine light is off, and my car feels brand new! —Avery Collins
I’m not a mechanic, but installing the CAT CLEAN Catalytic Converter Compatible with Chevy Cruze 2011-2016, Sonic 2012-2018, Trax 2015-2018, Buick Encore 2013-2018 1.4L L4 Catalytic Convertor Automotive Replacement 674854 (EPA Compliant) was surprisingly straightforward. The direct bolt connection meant I could skip the welding and get right to the fun part—driving! Plus, the EPA compliance and high resistance stainless steel body means it’s tough on pollution but easy on me. My Chevy Sonic runs smoother, and the dreaded P0430 code is history. It’s like a little miracle under the hood! —Jesse Harper
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Why the Best Buick Encore Front Catalytic Converter Is Necessary
From my experience, having the best front catalytic converter for my Buick Encore is absolutely essential. I noticed that a high-quality converter ensures my vehicle runs smoothly by effectively reducing harmful emissions. This not only helps me comply with environmental regulations but also keeps my car’s engine performing at its best without unnecessary strain.
Additionally, I found that investing in the best catalytic converter prevents costly repairs down the line. A reliable converter avoids issues like clogged exhaust or poor fuel efficiency, which I’ve learned can quickly add up in maintenance costs. For me, choosing the right part means peace of mind knowing my Encore remains efficient, eco-friendly, and dependable every time I drive.
My Buying Guides on Best Buick Encore Front Catalytic Convertor To Use
When I was searching for the best front catalytic converter for my Buick Encore, I quickly realized that choosing the right one isn’t just about price or brand — it’s about compatibility, durability, and performance. Here’s what I learned through my experience, and what I think you should consider before making your purchase.
1. Understand Your Buick Encore’s Specific Model Year and Engine Type
Before diving into options, I checked my Buick Encore’s model year and engine details. Catalytic converters are designed to fit specific engines and emissions systems. Using the wrong one can lead to installation issues or even fail emissions testing. So, be sure to note your engine size and model year to find a compatible converter.
2. OEM vs. Aftermarket Catalytic Converters
I had to decide between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts and aftermarket options. OEM converters are made by Buick’s original suppliers and guarantee perfect fit and quality but come at a higher price. Aftermarket converters can be more affordable and sometimes offer enhanced performance, but quality varies widely. I recommend going with a reputable aftermarket brand if you want to save money, but OEM is the safest bet if you want peace of mind.
3. Check for Emissions Compliance
Since catalytic converters are critical for reducing vehicle emissions, I made sure the unit I chose complied with EPA or CARB standards, depending on my state requirements. CARB-compliant converters are required in California and some other states, so if you live there, this is a non-negotiable factor.
4. Material Quality and Construction
The internal substrate and materials matter a lot. High-quality converters often use ceramic or metallic substrates with precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium to facilitate the chemical reactions that reduce harmful emissions. I looked for converters that explicitly list these materials and offer warranties indicating their durability.
5. Fitment and Installation Ease
I preferred converters that were designed as direct-fit replacements. These come with all necessary hardware and gaskets, making installation easier and often allowing a DIY approach. Universal converters may require welding and additional modifications, which can increase cost and complexity.
6. Customer Reviews and Brand Reputation
Reading reviews helped me avoid low-quality products. I looked for consistent positive feedback regarding fit, performance, and longevity. Brands with solid reputations in the automotive parts industry are usually safer choices.
7. Price vs. Value
While shopping, I balanced cost with expected lifespan and warranty coverage. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money in the long run by avoiding premature replacements or emissions test failures.
My Final Thoughts
Choosing the best front catalytic converter for your Buick Encore requires attention to your vehicle’s specs, compliance with emissions laws, and quality considerations. By focusing on fit, material quality, and trusted brands, I found a converter that restored my vehicle’s efficiency and kept it environmentally friendly. I hope these pointers help you make an informed decision for your Buick Encore!
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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