[Braddah_n8]

My car is a 1998 2.0 base.

My apologies if this has been covered already, I've looked and haven't found the answer i'm looking for. I recently started showing a P0422 code which initially had me thinking I had lost and oxygen sensor. After bringing it to my regular shop for diagnosis they have informed me that the catalytic converter is somehow bad and will need to be replaced. They claim to have found a universal one that would be an exact fit for 240$, I would like to find something cheaper. I have found a bunch from Autozone that are way cheaper but I don't know if they will fit/be easy to adapt. The ones I am looking at have 3" pipes on either end, what size are the pipes on the my beetle and will these fit / be easy to adapt? I am also open to recommendations for the part. Iv'e got a while before emissions is due but would like to get this resolved sooner if possible.

Thanks!
Nathan

 

[billymade]

The P0422 code, is a very common issue; the cats do eventually go bad and here the code definition.

16806/P0422/001058 - Ross-Tech Wiki

wiki.ross-tech.com

Having said that, I would confirm; that the shops diagnosis is correct. This video, is a easy and good way; to confirm, the cat is bad and needs replacement (using a scan tool, infrared temp gun, etc).

 

[billymade]

If the diagnosis is confirmed and you do need a new cat, then you might check out a VW oem company Bosal. Around here, many have been in the same situation as you; the benefit of the Bosal cats, is they are oem quality, fit correctly and every one, has passed the emissions testing, that people have failed, the check engine light/trouble code, was resolved. Bosal cats are in the medium price range but they fit correctly; so, no needed additional welding or modifications, to make them fit. Because of this, you could install it yourself; save money on labor, if total cost is a primary concern. You can look up your car on the online Bosal catalog and find the right one for your application; do not worry about the msrp pricing listed on the site/catalog, as you will find the prices online much cheaper (check RockAuto, carparts.com, carid.com or Amazon, (google search the part #); other local auto parts stores, possibly Autozone, may carry the Bosal brand as well).

Bosal Catalog | BRExhaust - OE Exhaust Systems and Catalytic Converters

BRExhaust designs and manufactures original exhaust systems for GM and Ford, and supplies OE service products to VW, Honda, Volvo, Subaru, and Mazda.

www.brexhaust.com

When, replacing the exhaust parts; I would also, check out all the mounts, rubber hangers and anything else, that is worn out, that can cause the flex area to get damaged, replace anything that is needed.