.... Our Nissan Maxima is 23 years old and still runs like a top. Never had the catalytic converter replaced. Don't be afraid of Nissan's, Toyota's, or Hondas. They are excellent buys.
About the catalytic converter. My 1998 Dodge Ram SS/T had a clogged catalytic converter. Took it to a muffler shop and the guy cut it off, replaced the oxygen sensors where they would be if the catalytic converter was there, without any codes showing up, and the truck ran much better. All engines are giant air pumps. The more air you put into them and the more air that comes out of the exhaust the better the engine will run. Also, the colder the air the better. At the time, I was willing to give up emissions for performance. I would not do that today, but I would probably replace it with a hi flow performance catalytic converter. I would actually recommend one of those on anyone replacing their converters on any car. Make the emission standards, plus receive better performance.

Scotty is great

I'm scratching my head on that one. I don't see how the lacquer thinner cleans if it is burned in the combustion process. I tried soap and water on my cat. Scratched the shit out of me.