Catalyst Warranty Extension for Some Volkswagen Cars

Introduction - This web page provides information on the extension of the catalyst warranty that Volkswagen will provide for some of the vehicles it produced.

Volkswagen Catalyst Problem:

In 1999, a change was made in the mat material used to secure the ceramic monolith in the catalytic converter container. Manufacturing adjustments were not made in the canning process to account for this new material. This resulted in the deterioration of the mat material and eventual movement of the ceramic monolith within the container. This causes the monolith to rattle in the container and eventually erode away. This erosion compromises the ability of the catalyst to reduce emissions, causing vehicle emissions to eventually increase.

Catalyst Problem Indications:

A rattling sound can be heard from under the vehicle. The check engine light may also illuminate.

Models Affected:

1999 - 2001 Golf, Jetta, New Beetle, with 2.0 liter engines, code AEG only.

Number of Vehicles Sold:

344,741

Remedy:

Volkswagen has agreed to extend the catalytic converter warranty to 10 years or 120,000 miles, whichever comes first. The original warranty covered the catalytic converter for 8 years or 80,000 miles, as required by EPA regulation. VW is sending letters to all owners notifying them of the problem, the indications of catalyst failure, and of the warranty extension. VW will also reimburse owners who have previously paid for a catalytic converter replacement.

Recall Program Background

Vehicle manufacturers are required to design and build their vehicles to meet emission standards for the useful life of the vehicle specified by law. Under Section 207 of the Clean Air Act, if EPA determines that a substantial number of vehicles in a class or category do not meet emission standards in actual use even though they are properly maintained and used, EPA can require the manufacturer to recall and fix the affected vehicles.

Most recalls are initiated voluntarily by manufacturers once a potential noncompliance is discovered. Some voluntary recalls are directly influenced via EPA in discussions with manufacturers. Some voluntary actions to remedy problems are extended warranty campaigns (such as the one described below) rather than direct recalls to repair all vehicles. EPA agrees to extended warranty campaigns when there is a high likelihood that owners will seek repair based on overt failure indications.

This page is maintained by EPA's Office of Transportation and Air Quality (OTAQ).
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