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franziskaice7

T-Cross NOx Catalyst Leak Causes Check Engine Alert

Recently my check engine light started flashing and my mechanic found error codes related to the exhaust system. I can hear exhaust gases leaking somewhere and suspect the NOx catalyst might be failing. Has anyone dealt with similar issues on their T-Cross (2020, gasoline, 116248km)? Looking for experiences and recommendations before taking it back to a mechanic, since my last repair shop visit was disappointing. Any insight on repair costs for NOx emissions components would be helpful too.

4 comment(s)

jessicalion1

Had a similar issue on my T-Roc (2017, 1.5 TSI). The flashing check engine light combined with exhaust noise typically points to a failing emissions system. In my case, the NOx catalyst had developed cracks, causing exhaust gases to leak and triggering the engine management system. The NOx emissions components are critical for proper engine function and environmental compliance. When the nitrogen oxides arent properly processed, it can lead to increased emissions and potential engine damage if left unaddressed. The catalytic converter assembly needed complete replacement. The repair was fairly extensive since accessing the NOx catalyst required removing several surrounding components. The work took about 6 hours at the shop. This isnt a repair you want to postpone, the leak can worsen quickly and potentially damage other emissions system components. Would strongly suggest finding a shop that specializes in VW emissions systems. The diagnostic process needs specialized equipment to properly test NOx catalyst function and pinpoint exact leak locations in the exhaust system.

franziskaice7 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience. I had identical symptoms on my T-Cross last year, flashing CEL and that distinct exhaust leak sound. The car diagnostics revealed a failing NOx catalyst, just like in your case. The repair definitely improved my fuel efficiency and eliminated those worrying noises. Could you recall approximately how much you paid for the full repair? Also wondering if youve had any related issues pop up since getting it fixed? My mechanic mentioned keeping an eye on the surrounding components that were disturbed during the repair.

jessicalion1

The complete repair cost me 265€, which covered fixing a substantial leak in the exhaust system and addressing the NOx storage catalyst aging. The automotive repair shop did an excellent job, and I havent experienced any issues since getting it fixed last year. The car diagnostics confirmed the emissions system is now working perfectly, with no check engine lights or unusual noises. The nitrogen oxides are being properly processed, and my fuel consumption has remained stable. The surrounding components that were handled during the repair have also held up well. The investment was worth it since properly functioning NOx emissions components are crucial for both performance and environmental compliance. My advice would be to monitor exhaust system performance through regular maintenance checks, but you shouldnt expect further problems if the repair was done correctly.

franziskaice7 (Author)

Just got back from the mechanic and wanted to close the loop. After getting several opinions, I found a specialized shop that really knew their stuff about emissions systems. The car diagnostics confirmed exactly what you experienced, a failing NOx catalyst that was leaking exhaust gases. The total repair came to 290€, slightly more than what you paid but still reasonable. The mechanic showed me the damaged parts and explained how the nitrogen oxides weren't being properly processed, which was affecting my fuel efficiency. The whole job took about 5 hours. They had to remove quite a few parts to access the catalyst, but everything was put back together properly. The check engine light is now off, the exhaust is quiet, and the car runs much smoother. Really glad I got this fixed before it caused more problems. The shop also gave me a detailed report on the emissions system components they checked during the repair. My previous mechanic never provided this level of service, so I'll definitely stick with these specialists for future maintenance.

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