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Illinois Catalytic Converter Laws

Illinois catalytic converter and emissions equipment regulations (collectively erred to as "smog" laws) generally follow the guidelines set by the federal government. The primary difference between Illinois and any other state is not the specific catalytic converter requirements, but how and where they are enforced.

Removal

You cannot remove any functioning catalytic converter from any vehicle originally equipped with one, except for the purposes of replacement. Fines for removal go to the mechanic, and (as per federal standards) can be as much as $10,000. The vehicle owner may or may not be fined, but the owner will be responsible for installing a working converter.

Replacement Conditions

It is illegal to tamper with, modify or otherwise molest any catalytic converter unless you have a certification stating that it is either missing or malfunctioning. These certifications can be obtained at any institution licensed for annual smog testing.

Replacement

If you do meet the replacement conditions, then you can only replace your catalytic converter with one of the same make, model and type as that originally installed on your car. You must also install the new converter in the same location on the car as the old.

Converter Warranties

Converters designed for vehicles 1996 and later must come from the manufacturer with at least an 8 year/80,000-mile warranty.

Exceptions

While converter laws technically apply to all vehicles, you cant be fined if your vehicle never gets inspected. The following vehicles are exempted from annual smog checks: motorcycles, farm vehicles, vehicles registered in 1967 or earlier, vehicles 25 years of age or older, diesels, boats, non-hybrid electric vehicles, off-road only race vehicles and vehicles for which a "junking certificate" has been issued.

Affected Counties

All vehicles in Cook, Dupage and Lake counties must receive annual smog checks. Vehicles in Kane, Kendall, McHenry, Will, Madison, Monroe and St. Clair counties must be annually smog checked unless you live in one of the exempted ZIP codes.