Missing catalytic converter on a certified pre-owned vehicle

C30sad
Sat, 29 Aug 2009 13:41:37 +0000
General Discussion

Two weeks ago, I bought a Certified, Pre-Owned 2008 Volvo C30 with 28,000 miles on it from a reputable Volvo dealer. 130 point checklist, etc. Within 20 miles of leaving the selling dealership the Check Engine light came on. I called them to tell them and they were mystified. I couldn’t turn around since I had to be somewhere to pick up a child. And since I live far from the dealer where I bought the car, I went to a different Volvo dealer close to my work, where I had planned to start a service relationship, to get the problem diagnosed. Computer diagnosis: needs a new catalytic converter. I call the selling dealer to tell them - they are mystified, but fortunately it’s all covered under warranty. Service dealer orders the part, I arrive for the appointment yesterday; they put the car on the lift, and, surprise! There is NO CATALYTIC CONVERTER AT ALL ON THE CAR! Just a pipe. The service dealer can’t perform the service because there is no old catalytic converter to send back to Volvo under the warranty program. I call the selling dealer to ask them why they sold me a certified car but with no catalytic converter; they continue to say they are mystified. The car is now with the selling dealer and they are “calling me on Monday.” What happened here? Is a catalytic converter a part that is easy to miss upon inspection? I don’t know much about cars but the research I am doing indicates this is a pretty crucial part of an automobile and that it’s illegal to drive without one.

50 posts - 17 participants