Catalytic converter problem

[esse10]

Does anybody know if the Universal catalytic converter will work in the 1.8T beetle to clear the chack engine light and pass emissions test? Mine has the 2nd O2 sensor about in the middle of the converter. Here is a picture of it. Really would appreciate any help guys. My car already has 157k miles and 8yr old, i don't think it qualify for the recall eventhough i had this problem way before I reached those numbers i just didn't know about the recall then.

[Smileybug]

Should be able to find one that works. I had a universal unit put on my 2.0 by a local muffler shop. Worked fine, no more CEL, less than $200 total for parts and labor.

You can also get in touch with VW and see about getting it covered. The mileage is going to be over so its doubtful but its worth a shot.

[esse10]

Originally Posted by Smileybug

Should be able to find one that works. I had a universal unit put on my 2.0 by a local muffler shop. Worked fine, no more CEL, less than $200 total for parts and labor.

You can also get in touch with VW and see about getting it covered. The mileage is going to be over so its doubtful but its worth a shot.

Okay, did your universal had one O2 sensor in the front and one O2 sensor in the middle of the catalytic or after the cat? and it passed the emissions test?

[Smileybug]

After and our emission tests here are just scanning for codes. No code after the replacement. I have no clue if the cat came with the space for the O2 sensor or if they had to make one. The shop had one already. Not even sure on the brand or anything. But it worked. Had it on for a year and a half with no CEL.

[katiex10204]

I also had a cat failure and got a universal replacement.. It is a magnaflow and has been great. No more CEL and I passed emissions both years with my new cat

[esse10]

Originally Posted by katiex10204

I also had a cat failure and got a universal replacement.. It is a magnaflow and has been great. No more CEL and I passed emissions both years with my new cat

Do you still have that part number of that magnaflow? sure appreciate it. I don't mind having it done I just need to put the correct part in there.

[katiex10204]

I am soo sorry but I have no idea where I put the paper work It was so long ago & the shop didn't even ask what I wanted they just did what they knew would work for my car.. also a 1.8T engine. Wish I could be of more help!

[IndyTom]

Originally Posted by esse10

Do you still have that part number of that magnaflow? sure appreciate it. I don't mind having it done I just need to put the correct part in there.

Here is a link to Direct Fit Catalytic converters for New Beetles.

Volkswagen Beetle Catalytic Converter | Free Shipping | 2002 - 2005, 1998 - 2001, EvanFischer, Eastern

Here are some Magnaflow Universal Cats for 03 New Beetle:

http://www.discountcatalyticconverte...nts=partfinder

[esse10]

Originally Posted by IndyTom

Here is a link to Direct Fit Catalytic converters for New Beetles.

Volkswagen Beetle Catalytic Converter | Free Shipping | 2002 - 2005, 1998 - 2001, EvanFischer, Eastern

Here are some Magnaflow Universal Cats for 03 New Beetle:

http://www.discountcatalyticconverte...nts=partfinder

Hey thanks indy tom you have always been very helpful. I will chase this cat and win I hope..LOL

[IndyTom]

Originally Posted by esse10

Hey thanks indy tom you have always been very helpful. I will chase this cat and win I hope..LOL

Good Luck with skinning.. ehm I mean chasing your Cat
Happy Holidays!

[Bluestream]

Don't mess around with a universal cat. Go to your local wreckers and pick up a nice used one with low miles for around $25

[MyOtherRidesAVette]

Originally Posted by Bluestream

Don't mess around with a universal cat. Go to your local wreckers and pick up a nice used one with low miles for around $25

Most recyclers/dismantlers won't sell used cats, it's against the law.

M.

[Bluestream]

Originally Posted by MyOtherRidesAVette

Most recyclers/dismantlers won't sell used cats, it's against the law.

M.

Why would it be?

It doesn't matter where you buy it: eBay, Craigslist, some guy parting out his VW, or an auto wrecker.

[MyOtherRidesAVette]

Originally Posted by Bluestream

Why would it be?

It doesn't matter where you buy it: eBay, Craigslist, some guy parting out his VW, or an auto wrecker.

Once again I have made the mistake of repeating something I have seen written many times here on the Org. After some research, I must amend my statement to read, while it may not be illegal to sell OR purchase used catalytic converters, in some States it is not legal to install them on a motor vehicle. There are also States which do not permit the use of aftermarket cats.

M.

[esse10]

Originally Posted by MyOtherRidesAVette

Once again I have made the mistake of repeating something I have seen written many times here on the Org. After some research, I must amend my statement to read, while it may not be illegal to sell OR purchase used catalytic converters, in some States it is not legal to install them on a motor vehicle. There are also States which do not permit the use of aftermarket cats.

M.

You are correct they don't sell you a used catalytic in the salvage yard.

[esse10]

Yesterday my car passed emissions test and I had a learning experience on this PO420 code of catalytic effeciancy beyound thrashhold. It wind up being my valve cover gasket leaking a small amount of oil into one of my spark plugs. The car never would misfire though and ran real good and idled real good , that's what threw me off troublshooting in the wrong direction. After replacing gasket and putting new plugs eventhough I had just replaced them (plugs) a month ago the car passed emissions with flying colors....YAY! life is good.

thank you'll for your help and this thread is complete. Hope somebody learns from this thread that is having the same PO420 code.

JULIAN Rosenberg TX.

[BLU1.8T]

good thing we dont have emission testing where im at.. i chopped my cat and welded a straightpipe, sold the cat for 150$