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It was indeed the catalytic converter (the EX does not have a pre-cat). After replacing it, the downstream sensor graph spends most of its time above 0.5 V, as it should if the converter is working. Update: I started getting this error code again, a little over a year after replacing the cat. I also finally found a guide on how to read these graphs, from ...

The cat back is just that the exhaust pipe including the muffler from the catalytic converter to the end of the tail pipe. Seems odd to me, not impossible just odd that you would need to replace the entire exhaust system from the cat back to pass inspection. I see from your profile that you are from PA and road salt can deteriorate an exhaust in that ...

If the cat rattles (may happen more after warmed up), then it's definitely bad. Banging on it can help see if there is material loose in there. If the cat was plugged up enough to affect performance, I would hope that one of the 02 sensors would kick off the check engine light. However, if it's borderline, I guess the engine may be able to adjust the fuel ...

It sounds as if the internals of the cat may have broken loose. The catalytic converter is already broke so you can't make it any worse. The worst thing that can happen is it could the piece that is rattling may break free and plug the exhaust leaving you stranded. I would also ask the dealer if they will cover potential problems of a clogged muffler later ...

Based on the link provided, I assume the ~400$ piece looks like 2 converter based on original equipment(OE) design, or as when the car came out of factory. Those at ~40$ looks more like an aftermarket replacement, with 1 converter and some installation required (welding and exhaust modification) while the OE is bolt-on.

I can't tell you if it'd fail inspection or not, but there's a good reason for its existence. It's basically a heat shield that protects the body of the car and the carpet/sound deadening in the car from the heat of the cat. Catalytic converters can get very hot (in the worst case, glowing hot) and without the heat shield that can cause problems or at least ...

A common problem in civics of that year. It's not the main catalyst that goes bad, it's the pre-cat (the one hanging right off the exhaust manifold). This one is for cold start and once your car is warmed up, the lions share of the work is done by your main catalyst. Take it in to the dealer to have your precat checked. Many cars have a 10 year warranty ...

Go around to some local shops and put their estimates against each other (openly) to drive the price down. There are a lot of "universal" pieces that can be used in exhaust repairs. I had everything (converter to the tail) replaced in my old Corsica (10 years ago maybe) for around $100. Of course this was no high end exhaust, but it was a Corsica. ;) Lasted ...