After trying to fix my power loss problem myself (changed ignition coils, spark plugs/wires and pre cat o2 sensor) I decided to take my car into a dealership to get it diagnosed. The results indicated that it is a clogged CAT and they ordered a new one covered under warranty. Since my car is lowered on coilovers, I decided to raise the car so that the dealership can lift it up on their hoist without giving me any hassle. After jacking up the car, I looked under at the cat and noticed a lot of scratches on the bottom of the CAT. There aren't any dents or major signs of impact to it... just a lot of scratches. I will be taking my car in tomorrow since the part has arrived. I'm a little worried that they may not cover my CAT due to the "impact / scratches" that occurred since my car is lowered.

What are your thoughts?

 

Well....US covers the CAT for 8 years 80k miles. Not sure about Canada.
If you are worried about the scratches, then don't be.
Actually, if you don't get the same warranty as us(I can't remember) and they give you a hassle, , I would call Mazda Canada while you were at the dealership and explain all you have done and request the cover it!

 

scratches and impact wouldnt cause it to clog up, when my engine was replaced they also replaced the cat because it was clogged up pretty bad too and it had a pretty nice size dent in it from a speed bump most likely i was told even if its damaged from the road it can be covered by warranty

 

Off topic a bit, but were you getting a CEL or did you just experience power loss? Did you notice any smell or difference in sounds?

 

Thanks for your input guys!

SayNoToPistons: The cel just came on today but I have been having this problem for a while now. There is a different smell coming out of my exhaust.

So I just dropped off my car at the dealership... now we play the waiting game

 

just tell then you dont know what happened.

 

everything went well... no questions asked. She is now running like brand new!

Thanks for your input everyone.

 

Awesome...............glad it worked out for ya!

 

Once they diagnosed it and ordered the new cat, wouldn't it be a done deal?

If the tech came out of the shop saying "This looks like it hit a speed bump...shouldn't be covered," he'd be cutting off some of his work time and the dealer would have the hassle of returning the cat.

Ken