The catalytic converter light has come on - is this related to the emissions fix?

I have a 2011 Volkswagen Touran 2.0 TDI. It had the Volkswagen emissions fix about six months ago and I have not had any noticeable problems with it. There was a period of it keeping the fan running after short drives but this was not common and it has not done it recently. The catalytic converter light has just come on and I wondered if this is related in any way to the recall. The car has done 66,000 miles and I've had it from new. It does mostly short journeys now but has generally been medium to long drives as it used to be my company car. Is the recall the reason or is it just fair wear and tear?

Asked on 31 July 2017 by Octy

Answered by Honest John
The fan was coming on due to increased regenerations due to more soot being created by the NOx fix. What may have happened now is that your DPF has started to fill up with ash. 66,000 miles is quite early for this. Normally 80,000 -100,000 miles. If I'm right, the ash can usually be cleaned out chemically by sending the DPF away to Ceramex and the whole job costs £400 - £500. If it needs a new DPF that will be about £1000. We are starting to monitor DPFs filling with ash prematurely after the fix, but it's early days yet.
Similar questions
I'm having problems with my DPF light coming on after the emissions fix. Is this a typical occurrence with the SEAT Toledo 1.6 TDi? What do they do to the vehicle when it undergoes the update and do you...
Given the recent complaints of cars breaking down or going into limp mode following the emissions fix, I'm considering not proceeding with my own recall on our 2010 Volkswagen Golf Plus (123,000 miles)....
My 2010 Volkswagen Golf VI 1.6 TDI has done 64,000 miles and the glowplug warning light keeps coming on. Will Terraclean clean my EGR? I won't be having the emissions fix.
Related models
Sharper styling and revamped interior. Range of frugal engines including turbocharged chain cam 1.2 TSI. Seven seats as standard and a versatile interior.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer