Anyone had trouble with a catalytic converter? I reported a rattle to my local Skoda dealer who told me it might be the cat. He is quoting a very fat price. If it is that, does anyone know how long I can run it before it needs replacing? Thanks

Probably is'nt the cat more likely to be the exhaust centre mount,which comes adrift from the exhaust. It can be welded back on,or fixed back in place with a jubilee clip.

I've heard exhaust rattle before and it didn't sound like this. It sounds like hard peas in a wind tunnel, seems to start around 3000 rpm. Stationary and moving, from under the drivers feet. No performance issues.

If the cat collapses due to a sharp knock it will rattle. I would imagine it will be fine until the MOT, so long as it doesn't block too much airflow.

:iagree: - I've heard a number of cats (and normal boxes) that have broken up inside, and it's always a tinny rattle. Run it til it drives you mad or fails an MoT.

I will, thank you. Do you know if it's an easy job to replace?

The worst things are crawling right under the car, siezed bolt heads that need blowtorching to be able to turn, and problems with getting the new system alignment right. Even Kwik-fit fitters do actually have a useful skill.

If it the cat that has gone, then if the car is an Mk1 Octy vRS I have a cat taken from my car when it had a complete Blueflame system fitted.

Its in perfect condition, just make me a realistic offer, and thats a lot, lot cheaper than what the dealer would have quoted you.