Catalytic converter needed

[greg96brg]

Hi to all, I'm new to this group. I just bought a 2000 Rialta with 26,000 miles. The check engine light is on. The code indicates I need a new catalytic converter. Do I really need to buy the factory model for around $1000?
Where can I buy another satisfactory converter so I can get passed emissions testing?
Thanks for any help.
Greg

[Straylight]

Unless VW chassis work goes much differently than other chassis work, here's what you do: Figure out which Volkswagen chassis your Rialta was built on (it's probably a Eurovan 2000 but could be 1999?), then enter that information into any of the "search for parts by car" menus on sites like Advanced Auto Parts, AutoZone, or even Amazon. Click through until you find exhaust system stuff.

Looks like you're in California, which means you're going to need to pay extra for a CARB-compliant cat.

The good news is that exhaust work isn't particularly difficult from a technical standpoint. I replaced my entire exhaust system myself in the street in front of my house with a Sawzall and some elbow grease a couple months back.

Looks like you should be able to get a direct-fit cat for under five hundred bucks.

[bigdan]

26,000 milles and the CAT is dead ,,...surprised !

normaly those last way longer then that ...

anyhow any good auto part will get you a universal functionning cat for much less !

the main point is to keep oxigen sensors running

Dan

[greg96brg]

Thanks guys. I didn't know it is built from a Eurovan. I found a cat converter online with the Eurovan information. It has the VR6 engine. I think that engine started being used in the Eurovan in 2000.

[bigdan]

All the Rilata`s are Eurovan based !
in 1997 -2000 for the 12 valves VR6
2001-2005 for the 24 valves .....

[greg96brg]

Thanks for the correction Big Dan. I'm new to all this stuff. My last Volkswagen was an air cooled 1983 Camper van. I saw the VR6 got a horsepower jump after somewhere after 2000. Did they get it from just the added valves or did they also increase the displacement?

[bigdan]

same displacement , 2.8L , added the new cylinder heads

After trying both .....not much diffrence in the driving feel !

Dan

[fwdanielson]

If you are not sure about the model or engine try going to NAPA's website and entering the VIN when specifying your vehicle. That will tell exactly what year, model, and engine you have.