Where is the catalytic converter on WRX?
The catalytic converter on a WRX is part of the exhaust system and is typically located on or just after the turbocharger, mounted on the downpipe. Many WRX variants use a dual-cat layout with a front close-coupled cat near the turbo and a second cat farther back in the exhaust; some newer or market-specific models may use a single catalytic converter in the downpipe. Check your exact model year and engine to confirm the layout in your car’s documentation or with a mechanic.
Common exhaust layouts your WRX may have
For planning repairs, maintenance, or aftermarket work, it helps to know the typical configurations seen in WRX models. The most common setups are described below.
- Two-cat layout (common in many EJ-series WRX): a front close-coupled catalytic converter mounted on the downpipe directly after the turbo, plus a second catalytic converter located farther back in the exhaust stream (mid-pipe/center section).
- Single-cat layout (found on some newer or market-specific variants): a single catalytic converter located in the downpipe or primary exhaust section, with no separate rear/secondary cat.
If you’re unsure which setup your car has, inspect the undercarriage starting at the turbo or consult the owner’s manual or a Subaru dealer for the exact specifications of your trim and year.
How to identify it on your specific WRX
Use these steps to confirm the number and location of catalytic converters on your car.
- Safely lift the front of the vehicle or crawl underneath with proper support and lighting.
- Follow the downpipe directly after the turbocharger: look for a catalytic converter housing attached to the pipe. A second catalytic housing further back indicates a two-cat setup.
- Note the distance from the turbo to each cat and check for heat shields and heat-radiating housings that identify catalytic units.
- Cross-check with the VIN, model year, and engine type in the official Subaru service manual or a dealership to confirm the exact configuration.
Concluding note: visual confirmation plus official documentation will give you the definitive layout for your WRX.
Model-year and market variations
Exhaust layouts can differ by generation and market—so the exact arrangement isn’t identical across every WRX. Here’s a broad guide to what some owners may encounter.
- Older WRX models (often EJ-series engines): typically two catalytic converters, positioned as described above.
- Mid-generation WRX (various EJ20/2.0T or EJ25/2.5T variants): many configurations retain the dual-cat setup, though some trims and markets used different arrangements.
- Newer WRX models (FA-series engines, including more recent generations): layout can vary; some configurations retain two cats, while others may consolidate to a single catalytic converter in the downpipe. Always verify for your exact year and market.
To be sure, always consult the factory service manual or a Subaru technician for your specific model and year, since emissions equipment and layout can differ by country and specification.
Visual cues to help you identify the setup
As you look under the car, you’ll typically see: (1) a catalytic housing mounted on the downpipe near the turbo, and (2) a second housing located further back in the exhaust path if it’s a two-cat system. The front cat is usually closer to the engine and may be smaller, while the rear cat sits farther toward the middle/rear of the vehicle and can be larger.
Summary
In most WRX models, the catalytic converter is found on the exhaust downpipe near the turbo, and many versions use two catalytic converters—one near the turbo and a second further back. Some variants and markets use a single catalytic converter instead. Because layouts vary by model year and region, verify with the owner’s manual or a Subaru dealer to know the exact location for your car.
