exhaust system

On mine 1992 Plymouth Acclaim (3L) catalytic converter is rusted inside and
basically the element is gone.
Rest of the system looks bad too.
Is it OK to drive without converter , and is it going to effect emission
test results? what is the chance to block the exhaust system with pieces of
catalytic converter?
At Thruway I was given estimate price C$550 to change all . Is the price
fair ?

Thanks for advice
Susanna
Toronto/Scarborough

 

Replacement will not be expensive.

Cost of replacement is less than cost of asphyxiation death.

Federally illegal.

Yes, you will fail the test.

Very high chance.

The price is almost suspiciously low. If the rest of the car is in good
shape and you plan on keeping it, you may want to get some comparative
quotes. Don't know Thruway; Speedy does acceptable work with
acceptable-quality parts. Do not use Canadian Tire.

 

ThruWay is known as a reasonable cost muffler shop. As long as they
install the correct converter for that price you should be fine. A
"direct fit" aftermarket converter should be around $300
installed,leacing 200 for pipe and muffler. I had stainless steel put
on my Ford for $200 cat back. (Canadian dollars, too.)