u/getmesushi

Hi everyone, I'm looking for feedback on recent repairs suggested by a local Hyundai dealership. We are planning to get a second opinion from an independent mechanic, but I’d appreciate any feedback before moving forward.

Vehicle information:

• 2014 Hyundai Accent (automatic)
• 115,000 miles
• No major repairs or ongoing issues previously
• Recently stolen and recovered
• Brought to Hyundai afterward for a post-theft inspection
• Washington, DC suburbs

Current symptoms:

• Randomly had trouble starting 2x
• Vehicle stalled twice in the past few weeks (this happened both before and after the theft)
• No DTCs or lights on dashboard

The dealership recommended the following repairs:

• Crankshaft position sensor — $487
• Catalytic converter replacement (DTC P0420) — $2,462
• Muffler gasket replacement (leaking) — $213
• Spark plug replacement — $447
• Fuel induction service — $290
• Replace both front lower control arms — $1,700

When I spoke with the service advisor, she said these repairs were related to the starting/stalling issues. I asked them to provide a video showing the issues they found, along with any testing/diagnostic data to support the recommendations. I’m still waiting for that information.

Here are my follow-up questions for them:

• Where exactly is the leak on the muffler gasket, and could this leak affect other diagnoses?
• What tests show that the catalytic converter has failed? How did they rule out other factors? (ie. O2 sensors)
• Since the starting/stalling issue could be crankshaft or spark plug-related, how do they determine that both need to be replaced?
• Do these repairs need to happen at the same time, or should some issues be addressed first and then re-tested?

My questions for the fine mechanics of reddit:

1. Do these recommendations sound reasonable based on the symptoms and mileage?
2. Does the catalytic converter recommendation make sense with the information provided?
3. Are there any additional questions or tests you would request before approving these repairs?

Thank you!