New to CA.. Emissions question about new cat

[mskinetik]

Greetings!

I just moved to LA and would really appreciate help with a couple of questions:)

I need to get a new cat installed on my 2000 miata in order to pass emissions.

In UT, I was told it would cost less than 250 to replace the cat.
I am calling shops around LA and one mentinoed OBD2 mufflers, said it's between 400-1k depending on where the cat is located.

I know the exhaust laws are stricter here in CA, but I just want to make sure I don't get fleeced.

Quesitons:
1. Can anyone recommend a reliable shop in the LA area?
2. Does anyone know if I need a new 'fancy' muffler by law on a 2000?

If anyone has suggestions I'm all ears:)

Thanks so much!
Karen

[danny]

the ca miata has a pre-cat and a main cat. the pre-cat should cost around $250 new on ebay. i saw it there once. Most people just switch to the 2001 headers brecause it eliminate the use of the pre-cat and also weighs a lot less. It will cost around $400 to do the swap(parts and labor)....but you never deal with the pre-cat again.

[danny]

no you do not need a fancy muffler. if the one on your car doesn't have any leaks then you are fine. You can just buy a used one for under $50 anywhere on craigslist. Whoever told you that is trying to scam you.