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GTI: my 2004..tire..pass it on emissions..catalytic converter.They

 
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  • Answered by:internal88
  • VW Mechanic
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Customer Question

I initially took my 2004 1.8T GTI in for state inspection at a chain store tire and repair shop. They would not pass it on emissions because an idiot light and code indicated a possible problem with the catalytic converter.

They reset the codes. However, we cannot get the codes to come on again, even after a month of driving and three return trips. I only have two weeks left to get this car to pass emissions testing. Should I take it into a VW dealer? I hate to spend money on a cat.

 

Country: United States
Make: Volkswagen
Model: Golf GTI 1.8T
Year: 2004

Submitted: 306 days and 20 hours ago.
Category: VW
Value: $29
Status: CLOSED

Accepted Answer

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Expert:  internal88 replied 306 days and 20 hours ago.


internal88 : Hi and welcome
internal88 : Do you know the code number?
internal88 : You don't have to go to the dealer at all.
internal88 : Is it code that starts with a P.
Customer :

I don't know the code

internal88 : Did he say anything about a sensor?
Customer :

All I know is the dealer said that the engine light that was on was caused by a possible faulty catalytic converter

Customer :

Then they reset the codes but the codes have not come back up so they won't pass it

internal88 :

yes, the only sensor that can trigger the code is the oxygen sensor

internal88 :

Can you go to another inspection machine?

Customer :

I could. Don't they have info that my car failed the code check?

Customer :

I thought it was all computerized

internal88 :

no

internal88 :

they won't record the code.

internal88 :

but the machine will know you failed.

Customer :

Won't another computer tell them the codes have been reset?

Customer :

Or the codes won't show on the other computer

internal88 :

What state do you live?

Customer :

MO

internal88 :

In new york - once you failed. You fix the code then go back to the station and they will check it again.

internal88 :

I need you to go to Autozone

internal88 :

Ask them to scan your OBD2

Customer :

Yes, they cleared the codes but say they have not reset

internal88 :

Ask them if the code still there.

Customer :

ok

Customer :

Then what

Customer :

Take it to a different inspection shop?

internal88 :

if the code is still there... then you will need to fix it.

Customer :

Ah

internal88 :

if the code exist then you should fix it.

internal88 :

If there is no code then go to another inspection center.

Customer :

So, then I would need a new converter if the code is still showing

Customer :

Or what else could it be?

internal88 :

No get the code first.

Customer :

Ok

Customer :

Sounds good. Thanks

internal88 : You might need an oxygen sensor instead of a cat.

Expert TypeVW Mechanic
Category: VW
Pos. Feedback: 97.2 %
Accepts: 105
Answered: 6/16/2012

Experience: I've been working in the automotive industry for over 10 years. Diagnostic is my strength.

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Expert:  internal88 replied 306 days and 20 hours ago.

I just don't want you to spend the money for the cat if you don't have to. Come back in here and update me later after you can it scanned. I will help you further. 41076.0628119213

 
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