Catalyser problems on 1.4 Petrol

Undecided

Member
Hi all,
Been a while since I have posted.
Had the A2 1.4 petrol for 5 years now.
Its on 125k and is an 02. Still love the car.
Through the summer it felt a bit gutless and recently the engine light came on.
Tried to ignore it for a few days and then it began to flash and performance went right down
So stopped using it until I could get it into the mechanics who look after it.
There was a misfire on one cylinder so they replaced plugs and cables.
Drove much better but next day the light was back on even though still running fine.
Took it back and the fault is now related to catalyser.
They say there is a rattle in the lower one that could be due to it falling apart internally or could be a bit of the first one which has worked its way down.
Either way they would need to get it all apart and look with a camera internally. Might be 1st cat, 2nd cat or both.
They say the 1st front cat isn’t available any more.
Now the engine light has gone off by itself. MOT is due mid May but I was considering trying an MOT now while the light is off to get a full year.
Has anyone failed an MOT on emissions because of old catalysers?
Looking for advice really. Obviously its an old car so I guess I wouldn’t want to spend more than £700 on this issue.
If you buy used catalysers can you tell by looking at them if they are sound?
Thanks in advance for any advice



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My sons BBY 1.4i had a blowing exhaust and we bought the whole thing minus the back box but including the lower CAT for £104 inc VAT from Euro car parts. It wasn't the best fit but with a bit of manipulation it fitted and has been fine. The point I'm making is that the parts are still available from the usual sources other than Audi for good prices.
I would doubt the upper CAT is at fault as its close to the engine which keeps it dry.
I also doubt you would fail an MOT provided you take it for a blast first.
 
Thanks kleynie
So is going for a burn up a good way to clean up your emissions?
And what you bought went between the front cat and the back box?
Seems like a good price. Did you fit it yourself?
Bit worried that being 16 years old it might all fall apart once tackled. Amazed it has lasted this long



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Yes, going for a high rev run will clear it out before the MOT. Yes, what we bought was the whole thing, from the front CAT to the back box including the flex connection. My son and I fitted it ourselves with the car on ramps and axle stands. You’d be surprise how good the original system held up to corrision, it all came apart fairly easily.
 
Thanks. Light still off and car going ok. Will decide what to do after Christmas


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