Catalytic Converters

Catalytic converter problem?

No sweat at Vehicle Masters Auto Repair in Oak Forest, IL. A catalytic converter is the component of an exhaust system that converts harmful pollutants into less harmful emissions. Driving with a faulty converter can result in an increase in these harmful emissions and a loss of power, especially during initial acceleration.

Stolen Catalytic Converter?

We can help! Not only can we replace a stolen catalytic converter, but prevent it from happening again by installing a Cat Clamp system on your vehicle!

Get back on the road with confidence. Our experienced mechanics use all diagnostic tools at their disposal to get to the heart of the matter and minimize the cost of repairs. They diagnose any troubles that could lead to the replacement of your catalytic converter. If a replacement is necessary, they work with you to make the process as easy as possible. No matter what exhaust problem you’re facing, our team is ready to help get your vehicle like new again.

Ask about solutions to lock and protect your catalytic converter from theft and other issues.  

Muffler and Exhaust Services

 

EVERYDAY STREET
OFF-ROAD, HI PERFORMANCE,
AND POWERSPORTS VEHICLES

Exhaust Manifold

Connects to the engine and expels exhaust fumes away from the engine and into the other exhaust system components.

 

 

Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter will burn off and remove as much of the toxins as possible in your exhaust fumes, thus reducing air pollution and minimizing deadly carbon monoxide.

Muffler

The muffler minimizes the sound coming from your exhaust, so that your vehicle runs as quietly as possible (unless you have a custom exhaust that you want to sound louder on purpose).

Pipes

Pipes connect the various exhaust system components to conduct the travel of the fumes, ultimately expelling out of the tail pipe at the back of your vehicle.

Vehicle Masters has you covered with almost
every automotive service you could need.
Our most common services are listed throughout the site, please consider us for all your vehicle needs.

6012 W. 159th Street

Oak Forest, IL 60452
159th between Central and Oak Park Ave.

708-687-9955


FINANCING AVAILABLE

Vehicle Masters Auto Repair
6012 W. 159th Street
Oak Forest, IL 60452

Frequently Asked Questions regarding Catalytic Converters

How do you know if your catalytic converter is broken?

You’ll notice a loud rumbling or roaring sound when you turn on the engine if your catalytic converter is missing. This sound gets louder when you hit the gas. The exhaust is not working correctly, so the vehicle also drives rougher than usual, often with a sense of sputtering as you change speed.

Will catalytic converters cause check engine light?

Your check engine light can come on for a variety of reasons. One of them is a failing catalytic converter. If your check engine light is on, get it looked at as soon as possible. If it is flashing, pull over immediately and call for help.

Why does my car sound so loud when I accelerate?

If your vehicle sounds louder than normal when you step on the gas pedal, it may be a sign that your muffler or exhaust pipes are leaking or getting worn out. Get them checked out asap.

How does exhaust affect fuel consumption?

This can be a sign of many different issues, but exhaust problems are one reason why your fuel economy is starting to diminish.

Where is my catalytic converter located?

Catalytic Converters are a part of the exhaust system and are generally under the car near the rear.  Replacing or repairing a catalytic converter requires an experienced mechanic for welding and a heavy-duty lift to raise the vehicle to a proper and safe height.  

When it comes to maintaining and repairing your exhaust system, catalytic converter and muffler, count on the team at Vehicle Masters. Call us today at 708-687-9955 or schedule an appointment online.

Kathy LuebkeKathy Luebke
00:44 25 May 23
I was very impressed with the professionalism, knowledge and service at Vehicle Masters. Steve provided me with thorough updates and information and was always considerate of the... price for us. I am very excited to have found a reliable place that I can trust.read more
D LaBD LaB
14:19 24 May 23
I have had all of my vehicles serviced and repaired for over the last 25 years going back to when he ran the shop as a Merlin's. He and his team have always done great work and... have always charged very reasonable prices for the work. They also always explain and show you what is wrong with your vehicle, bringing you into the shop to see the problem with your own eyes.read more
Brent DorrisBrent Dorris
18:57 19 May 23
I contacted Steve to perform a PPI on a used vehicle in the Oak Forest area, as I am an out of town customer and to say he was generous with his time is an understatement. He and... his team were extremely gracious and they provided me with the comfort and confidence I needed in order to make an out of state purchase. Additionally, he did it at no cost. I would recommend Steve to anyone looking for an honest automotive repair shop. Professionalism to the max. Thank you Steve and team!read more
Sandra DeanSandra Dean
02:25 03 Dec 22
I had a screw in my tire causing a slow leak. I went to two shop on 159th, Firestone and Sams Club. They both said they were closing come back tomorrow. I kept riding down 159the... and noticed the lights on in the shop. The owner, Steve was there cleaning, even though he was closed, he stop and checked my tire found the nail. He went ahead and plugged my tire no charge. Steve is a good guy. I will be going back soon for my oil change. Small business are the best businesses.read more
Savannah DoyleSavannah Doyle
23:27 02 Dec 22
My dad has been taking our family's cars here for as long as I can remember and we always come back for great, and friendly service. I took my car in for the first time by myself... and, although the name changed from Merlins to Vehicle Masters, hearing the owner Steve answer the phone was an immediate reassurance, knowing I would get straightforward, honest, reasonably priced, friendly, and good care. My car is very old and probably shouldn't last as long as it has- I know I owe Vehicle Masters great care for that!Taken in for everything from my alignment//breaks, to fixing the latch on my hood!read more
Lex CannellaLex Cannella
03:12 22 Nov 22
A+ customer service. Steve made sure to communicate with me regularly in regards to what was going on with my vehicle. He addressed every concern and if there were any other... concerns, he made note of everything and made sure my vehicle was taken care of. I will definitely bring my vehicle back here and recommend Vehicle Masters to my friends and family for service.read more
Stephen BeckerStephen Becker
17:27 15 Nov 22
Excellent. Very happy. My son’s car didn’t start. It just made clicking sounds. I did have a charger at home and charged up the battery enough to get it started. I really... couldn’t be sure if maybe my son left the lights on and accidentally drained the battery is 1 year old or if the alternator wasn’t charging the battery. I did call a place closer to my house but that guy was just trying to sell me a battery without even looking at the car. I called Vehicle Masters and Steve said he would check the batter and test the alternator. Vehicle Masters got me in the same day, tested everything, fully charged my son’s car battery. End result was my son probably just left his lights on and he is not in danger of getting stuck somewhere without the car starting. They didn’t even change me a diagnostic fee. They were very accommodating. Seems like they want to develop long-term customers.read more
antonio Brownantonio Brown
15:31 15 Nov 22
This establishment is located within the heart of the south suburbs. The environment is clean, the staff is friendly and they provide excellent service to the customer for... reasonable prices. The owner Steve is honest and will do everything possible to ensure quality work as well as customer satisfaction. I recommend anyone in need of auto body service to stop by here. You will not be disappointed.read more
Danny GDanny G
00:56 01 Nov 22
Steve went above and beyond to help me with a dinky little job bending an exhaust pipe - it was probably more of a hassle for him than anything, but he really went out of his way... to accommodate me for such a small thing. Steve is the kind of mechanic that's really hard to come by - he's good at what he does and isn't out to rip you off. So much in fact he didn't even ask me for any money for helping me out (but don't worry, i know it's not charity work). Only reason i mention that is because it speaks volumes about his character. Super pleased with the service - would recommend him to anyone. Thanks Steve!read more
Jennifer DeWildeJennifer DeWilde
19:04 12 Oct 22
Called ten places for help with diagnostic testing - everyone was three days out to help. The owner here was very helpful in trying to determine if this is a simple fix or... something more complicated. He was very accommodating and didn't hit me with a $175 fee just to walk in the door. I appreciate his business ethic a lot!!! Great A++++ service. Super fast and very fair with pricing! It was a simple fix for $80 and the other places around here wanted to charge me $100-$200 just to tell me what the problem was. He said let’s rule out the simplest possibilities first. He has my business in the future!!! I highly recommend them for your car repairs.read more
Marlon bellMarlon bell
17:40 28 Aug 22
Lifted my jeep Wrangler 4in in the front and a 3/25in in the rear causing a squat affect..They did a great job had a few problems but the owner took care of it in a timely... manner...read more
Gail FloresGail Flores
11:20 28 Jul 22
Have always been very straight forward, fair priced, and eager to get my truck back to me as soon as they can. Have not had to return for any issues they have addressed.
Terry DusekTerry Dusek
10:43 28 Jul 22
I had a great experience. They fixed my car out quickly and even some problems I wasn't aware off. They provided quick and wonderful service.
jeff austinjeff austin
19:05 07 Jul 22
Had my fourth vehicle exhaust done by Vehicle Masters(Merlins) Excellent jobThanks Steven
B CB C
08:46 07 Jul 22
Great experience. Great customer service
Lawrence LawsonLawrence Lawson
15:01 01 Jun 22
Great guys! They do great dependable work, honest and always helpful and willing to go that extra mile to help.
Zach JoritzZach Joritz
21:03 31 May 22
My family and I have been getting auto repair work done with Steve and his team for over ten years, and every experience has been nothing but professional, courteous, and... knowledgeable. Over the years, we have had repairs done on nearly every part of our cars and the team at Vehicle Masters has always been up to the task. I trust Steve to give me an honest assessment, and to do a high quality job with all repairs. I cannot recommend them enough!read more
Melissa GuarinoMelissa Guarino
15:48 23 May 22
We have been bringing our cars here for the last six years or so. Sometimes we are visiting more often than we would like for various issues, but dealing w/ Steve and team is... always a pleasant experience. They are everything you want out of a mechanic - honest, reasonable, reliable. Steve always takes his time to explain in detail what needs to be done to your car, when, and why. This last time, I mainly dealt with Shin, who also took his time to explain everything going on. As someone trying to get every last mile out of their car, I'm glad they are around. Highly recommend!read more
lonnie knightlonnie knight
00:08 13 May 22
I highly recommend this shop quality work by honest people Dave is the man for the job
Gary MarshallGary Marshall
09:42 04 Apr 22
Great business! Very professional, thoughtful, and they make sure you are completely satisfied with the work throughout the process.
Andy BurnsAndy Burns
18:29 18 Mar 22
First visit after the change over and my experience is starkly different. Much more amenable to discussions and alternative options. Going back shortly to get secondary work... done, looking forward to it.read more
Erika RafaelErika Rafael
03:00 18 Jan 22
Went here to get my Highlander’s drivers side window fixed towards the time they were closing but they still squeezed us in. Excellent customer service! I am definitely coming... back 🙂read more
Charles JohnsonCharles Johnson
15:58 19 Nov 21
Went to get my car serviced & was done in less than an hour!! Parts were the original but new parts for my truck!!! Definitely will be going to them for anything else needed!!!... Highly recommended!!!read more
Scott WinterrothScott Winterroth
02:50 14 Nov 21
The crew at Vehicle Masters is very knowledgeable and trustworthy with my auto repairs and brakes. They are great mechanics that work on all types of cool cars but also work on... regular daily driver vehicles and trucks. I would recommend these local mechanics to anyone looking for a solid, trustworthy service for vehicle maintenance and repairs in Oak Forest. Thanks STEVE!read more
Mitch WeinerMitch Weiner
14:33 21 Sep 21
Good job. Great folks. Straight shooters, reasonably priced, same folks(owner) for decades. I'll definitely be back. Polite, friendly and professional ???
Jason RichardsonJason Richardson
15:19 02 Jun 21
I have been going to Vehicle Masters Performance Center (old Merlin's) in Oak Forest since I was 21 (I am almost 49 now). Steve is the most polite and thorough mechanic and owner... I know. Everyone talks about staying local and keeping our small businesses open, etc well this is definitely one that is a staple of the town of Oak Forest. Highly recommend coming here first and save yourself time shopping around for the right place. This is it! I won't go anywhere else.read more
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VEHICLE MASTERS
PERFORMANCE CENTER

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6012 W. 159th Street
Oak Forest, IL 60452

708-687-9955

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We offer competitive pricing for new customers.