Unfortunately we were unable to locate an aftermarket catalytic converter for your Honda CRV; and the dealer part is your only replacement option. The cost is correct. Depending on the labor price of the installing smog station, you are looking near $2000.00.
The only option you may have is to apply to the CAP Smog Check Repair program and have your Honda CRV diagnosed by a CAP smog station. CAP will pay for the diagnosis. Once the smog station determines 100% that the CAT needs to be replaced, you may apply for a one-time smog check waiver (Economic Hardship Waiver) on the basis of financial hardship. Your vehicle is then inspected by the State Smog Check Referee's Office, and if the referee also determines the CAT is defective (and no other reason is causing your CRV to fail the smog check), they may issue the one-time waiver, based on economic hardship. You may contact the Smog Referee's Office at (800) 622-7733.
The one requirement of the Economic Hardship Waiver is that you yourself spend at least $650.00 towards repairing your Honda prior to the state allowing you a waiver. In this case, that might be difficult to do since the only problem apparently is tha the CAT is defective; so check with the Referee's Office to see if there is some sort of exemption in this specific case.
