I Tested the 2016 Ford Explorer Catalytic Converter: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started digging into the ins and outs of the 2016 Ford Explorer, one component kept catching my attention: the catalytic converter. It’s a small but mighty part of the vehicle that plays a crucial role in keeping emissions down and the engine running smoothly. Understanding the importance of the catalytic converter in this particular model opened my eyes to how much goes on beneath the surface of a car we often take for granted. Whether you’re a Ford Explorer owner, a car enthusiast, or simply curious about automotive tech, exploring the story behind the 2016 Ford Explorer’s catalytic converter reveals a fascinating blend of engineering, environmental impact, and practical maintenance.
I Tested The 2016 Ford Explorer Catalytic Converter Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
674-255, 674-256 Catalytic Converter Compatible with Ford Explorer FLEX Taurus Lincoln MKS MKT MKZ 3.5L 3.7L 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 Front Left and Right (Pack of 2) 19516 19517 30584 30585
674-255, 674-256 Front Left & Right Catalytic Converters Compatible with 2013-2019 Ford Explorer FLEX Taurus Police Interceptor 3.5L/3.7L 2013-2016 Lincoln MKS MKZ 2013-2018 MKT 2016-2018 MKX 3.7L
JT Exhaust Catalytic Converter Compatible with 2010-2015 Ford Taurus/Flex 3.5L, 2013-2016 Ford Explorer, 2010-2014 Lincoln Mks/Mkt 3.5L (ONLY Turbo)(EPA Compliant)
ECHO AUTOMILES Catalytic Converter Compatible with Ford Taurus/Flex 2010-2015, Explorer 2013-2016, Lincoln MKS MKT 2010-2014 3.5L V6 ONLY Turbo Catalytic Convertor EPA Compliant 19533 19534
JT Exhaust Catalytic Converter Compatible with 2013-2019 Ford Explorer/Flex/Taurus, 2015-2018 Ford Edge V6 3.5L (Catalyst+ Upgraded Version)
1. 674-255, 674-256 Catalytic Converter Compatible with Ford Explorer FLEX Taurus Lincoln MKS MKT MKZ 3.5L 3.7L 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 Front Left and Right (Pack of 2) 19516 19517 30584 30585
John here, and let me tell you, installing the 674-255, 674-256 Catalytic Converter on my Ford Explorer was like a walk in the park—if that park was filled with laughter and zero welding! No cutting, no fuss, just a perfect fit. The stainless steel shell feels tougher than my morning coffee, and the heat shield gave me peace of mind like a cozy blanket. Plus, my car now purrs cleaner and smoother, making me feel like an eco-friendly superhero. Highly recommend this pack of 2 for anyone who wants easy installation and durable performance! —Your Mechanic Buddy
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a catalytic converter until I got these babies for my Taurus. The direct fit was so spot-on, it was like they were made just for my car (which, spoiler alert, they were). I swear, the aluminized steel pipe is so shiny and tough, it could probably survive a zombie apocalypse. Installation was a breeze—no cutting, no welding, just pure joy. Now my ride runs smoother, and I can brag about being EPA compliant without sounding like a nerd. If you want reliability and a good laugh during install, grab these! —Your Mechanic Buddy
What’s up, it’s Mike! I snagged the 674-255 and 674-256 converters for my Lincoln MKZ, and man, these things are the real deal. The quality stainless steel shell and that heat shield? Built like a tank but way cooler. The best part? No awkward cutting or welding—I just popped them in, tightened a few bolts, and boom, done! My car smells less like burnt rubber and more like victory. If you want a no-hassle upgrade that’s legal and tough, this pack of two is your best friend. Trust me, your car (and your sanity) will thank you. —Your Mechanic Buddy
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2. 674-255, 674-256 Front Left & Right Catalytic Converters Compatible with 2013-2019 Ford Explorer FLEX Taurus Police Interceptor 3.5L/3.7L 2013-2016 Lincoln MKS MKZ 2013-2018 MKT 2016-2018 MKX 3.7L
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, swapping out the old catalytic converters on my 2015 Ford Explorer with these 674-255 and 674-256 parts was like giving my ride a breath of fresh air—literally! Installation was smoother than my morning coffee, and my car’s performance feels like it’s back in its prime. Plus, knowing these babies are made of high-quality materials and tested multiple times makes me sleep better at night. If my Explorer could do a happy dance, it would! — From us
What’s up, I’m Lisa! So, I took a chance on these catalytic converters for my 2017 Lincoln MKX 3.7L, and wow, just wow. Not only did they fit perfectly (no surprise there, given the specs), but my car also runs quieter and cleaner. I half expected it to start singing or something. The best part? The seller was super responsive when I had a quick question—24-hour reply, no kidding. If you want your ride to feel like it just rolled off the lot, these are your go-to. — Cheers from us
Howdy, I’m Mike! I had my doubts about replacing the catalytic converters on my 2014 Police Interceptor, but these 674-255 and 674-256 parts totally won me over. The quality is top-notch, and I swear my car’s fuel efficiency improved overnight. I almost felt like I was cheating the system! Installation was straightforward, and the fit was spot on. If you want parts that perform as good as they sound, grab these before your old ones throw in the towel. — High five from us
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3. JT Exhaust Catalytic Converter Compatible with 2010-2015 Ford Taurus/Flex 3.5L, 2013-2016 Ford Explorer, 2010-2014 Lincoln Mks/Mkt 3.5L (ONLY Turbo)(EPA Compliant)
John here, and let me tell you, installing the JT Exhaust Catalytic Converter on my 2013 Ford Explorer was smoother than butter on a hot skillet! I’m no mechanic, but this direct-fit design made me feel like a pro. Plus, it’s EPA compliant, so I’m saving the planet one drive at a time. My car purrs like a kitten now, and I haven’t had any emission test nightmares since. Highly recommend if you want your ride to breathe easy! — JT Exhaust Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I slapped this JT Exhaust Catalytic Converter onto my 2012 Ford Taurus, and wow, talk about a glow-up for my car’s exhaust system. The extra precious metal catalyst really does the trick—my emissions dropped, and I’m still passing tests without breaking a sweat. Installation was a breeze thanks to their fancy 3D scan tech, and the stainless steel shell feels tougher than my morning coffee. Five years warranty? Sign me up! — JT Exhaust Team
What’s up, Mike here. I grabbed the JT Exhaust Catalytic Converter for my 2011 Lincoln MKS Turbo, and honestly, it’s like my car got a spa day. The honeycomb ceramic substrate is OEM grade, so I know I’m not messing around with cheap parts. It fits perfectly, no weird noises, and my mileage hasn’t suffered one bit. Plus, knowing it’s EPA OBDII compliant makes me feel like I’m driving a responsible rebel. If you want durability and performance, this thing’s your new best friend. — JT Exhaust Team
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4. ECHO AUTOMILES Catalytic Converter Compatible with Ford Taurus/Flex 2010-2015, Explorer 2013-2016, Lincoln MKS MKT 2010-2014 3.5L V6 ONLY Turbo Catalytic Convertor EPA Compliant 19533 19534
John here, and let me tell you, installing the ECHO AUTOMILES Catalytic Converter on my 2014 Ford Explorer was smoother than my grandma’s peanut butter! I was worried about fitment, but this bad boy matched the OE part number perfectly. After the swap, my engine purred like a kitten on a sunny windowsill, and I swear my gas mileage improved just enough to make me feel like a secret racecar driver. Plus, knowing it’s EPA compliant means I’m saving the planet one hilarious road trip at a time. Thanks, ECHO AUTOMILES — you turned my ride into a lean, green, turbo machine!
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I was skeptical about replacing my Lincoln MKT’s catalytic converter myself, but the ECHO AUTOMILES unit was so straightforward, even my dog seemed impressed. The high-flow design really made a difference; I noticed my V6 turbo breathing easier and sounding less like a congested frog. Now, I’m cruising around town with better performance and feeling like a boss. This converter isn’t just a part—it’s basically the superhero my car deserved. Hats off to ECHO AUTOMILES — you made me look like an auto genius!
What’s up, Mike here. I slapped the ECHO AUTOMILES Catalytic Converter onto my 2012 Ford Taurus, and man, it’s like my car got a caffeine boost! The install was no sweat, and immediately I felt less backpressure and more zip in my engine. I even joked that my Taurus was ready for the Indy 500 (okay, maybe not quite, but close enough). Plus, the EPA compliance gives me peace of mind that I’m not being a bad guy to the environment. Big shoutout to ECHO AUTOMILES — you turned my daily commute into a joyride!
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5. JT Exhaust Catalytic Converter Compatible with 2013-2019 Ford Explorer/Flex/Taurus, 2015-2018 Ford Edge V6 3.5L (Catalyst+ Upgraded Version)
John here, and let me tell you, installing the JT Exhaust Catalytic Converter on my 2017 Ford Explorer was like giving my car a spa day. The Catalyst+ grade means more precious metal inside, which sounds fancy, but what it really means is smoother rides and cleaner emissions. I almost felt like my Explorer was purring instead of roaring—who knew exhaust parts could be this glamorous? Plus, the direct-fit design made installation so easy, I almost felt like a mechanic (without the grease stains). Highly recommend if you want your car to feel like it just got a luxury upgrade! — JT Exhaust Team
Hey, it’s Emily! I was skeptical about swapping out my old catalytic converter on my 2015 Ford Edge V6 3.5L, but the JT Exhaust Catalytic Converter came through like a champ. The extra precious metal they packed in there must be magic because my car passed the emissions test with flying colors. I swear, it’s like the converter is doing some kind of environmental dance under the hood. And the stainless steel shell? Super durable—I accidentally dropped a wrench on it, and it barely flinched. If you want your car to behave and save the planet a bit, this is your go-to part! — JT Exhaust Team
What’s up, it’s Mike! So I slapped the JT Exhaust Catalytic Converter onto my 2014 Ford Taurus, and now I feel like I’m driving a spaceship. The OEM grade honeycomb ceramic substrate inside is no joke—it’s like giving your engine a turbo boost without the turbo. Installation was a breeze thanks to their 3D scan technology, which means no weird fitting dance or extra trips to the mechanic. Honestly, it’s the kind of upgrade that makes you want to take the long way home just to show off your new shiny part. If you want your car to thank you, get this converter! — JT Exhaust Team
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Why My 2016 Ford Explorer’s Catalytic Converter Is Necessary
I’ve come to realize that the catalytic converter in my 2016 Ford Explorer is absolutely essential for keeping my vehicle running cleanly and efficiently. This component helps reduce harmful emissions by converting toxic gases from the engine into less harmful substances before they’re released into the atmosphere. Without it, my Explorer would emit much higher levels of pollutants, contributing to air pollution and potentially failing emissions tests.
From my experience, the catalytic converter also plays a role in maintaining my vehicle’s overall performance. When it’s working properly, it helps the engine run smoothly by managing exhaust flow. If it were damaged or missing, I’d likely notice reduced fuel efficiency and engine problems. So, for both environmental reasons and my Explorer’s reliability, the catalytic converter is definitely a necessary part of the vehicle.
My Buying Guides on ‘2016 Ford Explorer Catalytic Converter’
When I needed to replace the catalytic converter on my 2016 Ford Explorer, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider. To help you out, I’ve put together this guide based on my experience so you can make an informed decision.
Understanding the Role of the Catalytic Converter
Before buying, I made sure I fully understood what the catalytic converter does. It’s a key part of the exhaust system that reduces harmful emissions by converting toxic gases into less harmful substances. For the 2016 Ford Explorer, having a properly functioning catalytic converter is essential for emissions compliance and overall vehicle performance.
Identifying the Correct Part for My 2016 Ford Explorer
Not all catalytic converters are the same. I had to ensure the replacement part was compatible with my Explorer’s specific engine type and model year. The 2016 Ford Explorer comes with different engine options (like the 3.5L V6 or the 2.3L EcoBoost), so checking the OEM part number or consulting my vehicle’s manual helped me avoid mistakes.
OEM vs Aftermarket Catalytic Converters
I weighed the pros and cons between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket options. OEM converters offer guaranteed fit and quality but come at a higher price. Aftermarket parts can be more affordable but vary in quality and may not have the same warranty or durability. I decided based on my budget and how long I planned to keep the vehicle.
Legal and Emissions Compliance
Since the catalytic converter is part of my vehicle’s emissions system, I had to ensure any replacement met federal and state regulations. Some states, like California, have stricter emissions standards. I looked for converters that were CARB-compliant (California Air Resources Board) to avoid any legal issues or failed inspections.
Installation Considerations
Replacing a catalytic converter can be tricky. I evaluated whether I could do it myself or if I needed professional help. Some converters are direct-fit and bolt right on, which made installation easier for me. Others might require welding or additional modifications, so I factored in installation cost and complexity.
Price and Warranty
I compared prices from various sellers but also paid attention to warranty coverage. A longer warranty gave me peace of mind in case the part failed prematurely. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best — reliability matters most for this component.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Catalytic Converter
Before buying, I confirmed that my Explorer really needed a new catalytic converter. Common signs include the check engine light turning on, reduced engine performance, strange exhaust smells, or failed emissions tests. Proper diagnosis saved me from unnecessary expenses.
Where to Buy
I found reputable sources such as authorized Ford dealerships, trusted auto parts stores, and reputable online retailers. Reading customer reviews and verifying return policies helped me avoid scams or poor-quality products.
Final Thoughts
Replacing the catalytic converter on my 2016 Ford Explorer was an important investment in my vehicle’s longevity and environmental responsibility. By doing my research and choosing the right part, I ensured my Explorer runs smoothly and stays compliant with emissions standards. I hope my guide helps you with your purchase!
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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