How long can I wait to get new catalytic converter on 2000 Honda Civic?

[JungleWhispers]

I have a 2000 Honda Civic approx 125 k miles. For the past few weeks check engine light has come on & gone off. When low on fuel it comes on then about 50 miles after filling up it goes off & comes on again when fuel is low. Today took it to auto zone they said code was PO420. I don't notice any change in driving & don't have lots of money for repairs. Is it safe to drive for awhile if the catalytic converter is truly bad?
I had the oxygen sensors replaced in July so doubtful it would be that.
I live in NJ where they definitely check for emissions but don't have to be inspected until next year so it's not a rush.

 

[kjhfisherman]

it is worse with the emissions, but otherwise its fine. and catalytic converters are very expensive, when my dad and I put a new engine in his truck last year, instead of putting in a new one, we just took a hammer and beat the crap out of it, so it wouldnt work.

 

[kelly_f_1999]

catalytic converter might be about plugged up should see it start to slow down and start getting bad fuel mileage really you can drive it till it will run only like 45 miles per hour while your holding pedal to floor.. but sounds more like you need to add a fuel treatment or a good tune up and really you should never wait for fuel light to come on before buying fuel is not a good way to do it.. doing so wil lead to fuel problems

 

[imm0rtaly_insane]

catalytic converters are only needed on an enviromental issue.if they dont test your cars emission cut the catalytic converter out and run a straight pipe to the other side of the muffler.did that in michigan where they do not test for emissions.they sell those pipes at most stores.2 sides should be bigger then then the muffler then use muffler clamps