Direct-Fit Mufflers, Converters Helping Shops Add Emissions Control To Service Portfolios

Automotive service providers that either exited the emissions control category over the past 20 years or never offered emissions repairs might want to reconsider the opportunity thanks to the increased availability of direct-fit replacement muffler assemblies and catalytic converters from Tenneco’s Walker Emissions Control brand.

Unlike conventional, universal replacement components, Walker direct-fit units are engineered to provide precise, original equipment-style fitment without the need for fabrication, welding and other time -intensive processes. These “bolt-on” repair solutions open the door for technicians and shops that have not historically provided these repairs and allow them to avoid investing in expensive pipe benders and other equipment.

“Few shop owners enjoy saying ‘No’ to customers, but many have been doing exactly that for the past several years because they felt they didn’t have the experience or equipment to compete in the emissions category,” said John Perrin, director of marketing and engineering, North America Aftermarket, Tenneco. “Walker direct-fit muffler assemblies and catalytic converters are engineered to enable thousands of shops to capture these service opportunities rather than sending them to their competitors.”

The automotive service market has embraced the value of direct-fit replacement emissions control parts, according to recent figures from the Manufacturers of Emissions Controls Association (MECA). Unit sales of replacement direct-fit converters, for example, have grown 37% since 2010. Tenneco has helped drive this trend through aggressive expansion of direct-fit coverage, introducing more than 500 direct-fit Walker Ultra and CalCat catalytic converters and over 100 premium direct-fit Walker Quiet-Flow SS mufflers and exhaust assemblies over the past four years.

“With the continued growth of onboard electronics related to vehicle emissions, the emissions control service category is expected to continue to grow at a healthy rate,” Perrin said. “There is tremendous opportunity for shops that want to offer a wider range of services to their customers, and emissions control diagnosis and repair is now a core category that deserves serious attention.”

For more information regarding Walker direct-fit emissions control components, please contact your Walker supplier or Tenneco sales representative, visit the Tenneco exhibit (No. 1625) at the 2015 AAPEX Show, November 3-5 in Las Vegas, and log on to www.walkerexhaust.com.