I bought a used '01 TT 225 convertible 8/4.8/5 the check engine light came on. Dealer assured me it was probably the gas cap; it was a clogged valve. While in the shop they noted it still had 7000 on a 70,000/7 yr warranty so recommended I change out the catalytic converter. I also asked them to change out the timing belt at the same time if it hadn't yet been done.

They fixed the clogged valve and changed the belt but the new cat wasn't in by8/10 late morning. I needed the car on the weekend, they said should be just fine, bring her back Monday am and the part will be in and we will get it back to you that afternoon. Sweet.

Except that the stupid check engine light came on AGAIN after half a day of driving on 8/11.

The dealer said this am that it was probably due to the cat, that the numbers were too high and since it wasn't changed yet that was the issue. But then why did they first say the light had come on due to a clogged valve?

I love this car, it is gorgeous and fun but after driving a reliable Toyota Celica GT manual convertible for 13 years (it finally died at age 16 from overheating), I am not used to finicky vehicles!

Reassure me someone - thanks!

NL

 

Im sure there was more than one code given the last time. The cat code comes back after about 100-150 miles of driving once reset. So im sure it was already tripped before. Just get the new cat and you should be good.

When you say you had a clogged valve, you mean intake/exhaust valve?

 

My '01 TT needed a new catalytic converter and the check engine light was on continuously until they got it changed out. That took care of the problem, though.

I love the car--just changing lanes is fun. But it is German, and finicky. You are making a commitment to service with this thing.

You did good by changing out the timing belt when you did.

 

Thanks guys, I feel a bit better now!

Yea, I know timing belts are much better to replace before they go out than after! Figured $795 now would save a bundle down the road.

(The valve was in the emission system itself, and will be replaced with the cat - it was part of the sensor mechanism.)

As to the finickiness, I have heard 2500 miles for oil changes instead of the typical 3000 is recommended. Anything else I should know?

NL

 

Full syn oil (5w40 or mobile1 0w40), and 5-7k miles

Sounds like a pcv got changed. Bet there is plenty of oil pooled in your ic then

 

Shoot - something new to worry about. Will they take out the intercooler and make sure the oil is out of there as part of the cat change out or should I call them now and tell them to do it?

 

Not really something you need to worry to much about. I just did mine about a month ago and there was about a cup of oil in mine. I wouldnt pay the labor time to do it, not really worth it.

 

I just talked to the guy; he said they did it already when they did the timing belt. OK gonna quit worrying for awhile and enjoy this car (once it's back that is!) Thanks again -

NL

 

Very nice

 

Welcome to the world of the TT!!!