Most of us here are probably aware, that with owning a Daihatsu in the UK there comes a degree of parts availability scarcity. Subsequently I like to crystal ball gaze and try to second guess what is likely to go wrong next and stay one step ahead.

I have spent a lot of time having academic exercises looking for parts and I have found all sorts of things on the www but the one thing that eludes me is a catalytic converter – a ‘benefit’ of owning a 1.5 Sirion I guess. They appear to be as rare as rocking horse shit. Mine is the exhaust manifold type, which hangs straight off the exhaust and goes by the other name of close-coupled.

So, firstly how long can I expect a catalytic converter to last bearing in mind my driving type is long and fast journeys, and the engine and emissions control systems are well maintained. I have little personal experience of them because I have been living abroad for nearly thirty years where they weren’t fitted, so having one now is a novelty. How long has your converter lasted? Also should I ever need one where would I get one apart from a Daihatsu dealer. Anybody got any thoughts or a recommendation for an awesome supplier or maker.

The same sort of question arises for the exhaust system as a whole but for that I am not too worried because I am sure I can get one made. Anyone got any recommendations for that as well I would be interested.

Regards