2009-2013 Toyota Corolla 1.8L Catalytic Converter Guide (Also Matrix and Vibe)
Reviewed 2026-10-03. Checked against the sources listed below. This is general information, not a substitute for a mechanic's inspection.
Quick answer
On the 2009-2013 Toyota Corolla 1.8L, the 2009-2011 Toyota Matrix 1.8L and the 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe 1.8L, the same front catalytic converter fits all three, because they share the same 1.8L 4-cylinder engine and front exhaust layout. It is not the same part as the 2003-2008 models, and it does not fit the 2.4L Matrix or Vibe. Before you buy, confirm your engine size, rule out the common non-converter causes of a P0420 code, and check that the part matches your year.
Exact fit
| Years | Make | Model | Engine | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009-2013 | Toyota | Corolla | 1.8L 4-cylinder | Front-wheel drive |
| 2009-2011 | Toyota | Matrix | 1.8L 4-cylinder | Front-wheel drive |
| 2009-2010 | Pontiac | Vibe | 1.8L 4-cylinder | Front-wheel drive |
Not for: 2.4L models, and not for 2003-2008 models (those use a different converter, see our 2003-2008 guide).
Confirm your engine in two minutes
The Matrix and Vibe were sold with more than one engine in these years, so do not go by the model name alone.
- Find your VIN on the driver side of the dashboard (look through the windshield) or on the driver door sticker.
- Enter it in the free NHTSA VIN decoder and look for Displacement (L). You want 1.8.
- If it says 2.4, this converter is not for your car.
Is there a recall?
We checked NHTSA's recall database for every model year on this page (2009-2013 Corolla, 2009-2011 Matrix, 2009-2010 Vibe). None of the safety recalls listed for these vehicles involve the exhaust system or the catalytic converter. Recalls can be added at any time, so enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the current answer on your car.
Is it still under warranty?
Federal rules give catalytic converters an emission warranty of 8 years or 80,000 miles, whichever comes first, counted from the date the vehicle was first delivered. Every vehicle on this page is now more than 8 years old, so that coverage has ended. Check your warranty booklet anyway if you bought an extended warranty.
Before you replace it: the 3 checks
- Other codes first. Misfire codes (P0300 to P0304) or lean codes (P0171) mean something upstream needs fixing first, or it will damage the new converter too.
- Exhaust leaks. A leak at the manifold joint or the flex section can fake a bad converter reading. Look for black soot at joints.
- The downstream oxygen sensor. A slow or damaged sensor can set P0420 on its own.
If all three check out and P0420 keeps coming back, the converter is the likely cause.
What the AFECO part includes
The AFECO 51360 front converter has a triangular 2-bolt inlet flange and one oxygen sensor port in the factory position. The box includes the converter, 2 bolts, 2 springs, 2 nuts, 1 donut gasket and 1 clamp, so you are not reusing old, stretched hardware. Use penetrating oil on the old bolts the night before, and fit the new gasket every time.
