Volkswagen: 1999 VW Jetta GL catalytic converter, coolant leaks, vw jetta

Question
-Thank you. Was this is reference to the check engine light for the catalytic converter? Or to the maple syrup smell?
 
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Followup To
Question -
Hi, in December 2004, my catalytic converter (on my VW Jetta GL 1999) was replaced by a local shop.  About 8 months later my check engine light came on.  I took it back to that local shop & he said it was reading the catalytic converter.  I reminded them that they just replaced it not too long ago.  They hooked up the computer underneath my dashboard & said it must only be a faulty sensor for the converter.  So, he replaced the sensor.  Maybe 2 months later the light came on again & he said there is nothing he can do about it & to take it to the dealer.  I took it to the dealer & they said the computer reads that the catalytic converter needs to be replaced.  I told them it was just replaced a year ago.  I asked them if it was a faulty one & they said they couldn't tell just from the computer.  I went back to the local shop & my converter is under warranty for 2 years.  THey said they will replace it again, but the light will probably come back on again.  He thinks there is something wrong with the car's computer.  He said there is a VW thing going on with catalytic converters.  Is this true?  Is there a common problem with VW's & the converter?  If so, why wouldn't the dealer tell me this?  By the way, I also have been getting a maple syrup type of smell coming in through the heating vents when my car warms up.  The dealer checked for coolant leaks & oil leaks & there were none.  Any ideas on the smell?

Thank you!
Answer -
Hi Amy,

I have never heard of this.   Either a faulty oxygen sensor, or bad gasket on your fuel filler knob.

Ask them about that first.

Something does not sound right.

Thank you.  Was this is reference to the check engine light for the catalytic converter?  Or to the maple syrup smell?

Answer
Hi Amy,

The "Maple Syrup" smell is anti-freeze.  It may be coming out of your heater core.   Check the passenger side rug and make sure it is not damp. This should be looked at right away.  If you can look at all the hoses, you may just find a little drip or leak.   Check the water pump too --- it's located right in the front of the engine. (be careful of the fan(s).  It is driven by a belt.

Definately get the new catalytic converter.  It sounds faulty, and no I did not see any recalls nor persistant problems with VW and converters.  So, your problem is unique.  I suggest:

1) Take the guy up on the new one, have it installed.   Tell them you need to take it back  to the dealer, so the cat. converter must be installed according to the factory specs. as well as double-checking the part number.

2) Bring to dealer, have them either a) Run a diagnostic if the light is still on.   Have an O2 sensor put on.  Third, put high-test gas in the car.

3) Try this out and let me know how you make out.


Ron