Blog

A driver's life in a sizable city like Jacksonville inevitably involves occasional car scratches or even the odd dent. If you find a few car dents or scratches in your pristine paintwork one day, don't fret. There are several ways to repair this kind of surface-level damage by yourself. And if you'd like a professional hand, you can always visit your local VW dealership. What Should You Do if Your VW Gets Scratched or Dented? How to Get Rid of Car Dents You can find a dent repair kit at your nearest auto parts store. These kits usually use a suction cup of some design. Choose a kit that comes with a range of cup sizes, or find a cup that matches your dent in size. To fix your dent, you need to apply the suction cup and heave until the dent pops out. Follow any extra instructions that come with your kit. One pro tip is to heat up the metal beforehand to make it more pliable. You can do this with a hairdryer on full heat and maximum blast. more Fill in Stubborn Dents If a dent refused to pop out, another option is to fill it in with special body filler, which you can also buy at most auto parts stores. This job takes a little while but can effectively make your dent disappear. To begin, wash and dry your bodywork. You'll then need to remove the paint around the dent using sandpaper or an electric sander. When sanding, you want the paint to be rough around the edges of the dent. Next, mix the filler and apply it to the dent in layers. Start with a thick filler layer, pressing hard to ensure no air is trapped underneath. Then you can carefully add thinner layers and sand the dried filler to make it match the bodywork's contours. Finally, spray on primer, paint the area, and apply paint sealant. How To Get Rid of Car Scratches Scratches can be far easier to deal with than dents, especially light upper-layer scratches that haven't removed any paintwork. You can use a scratch remover cloth to rub away the shallowest of scratches. You can also use a scratch remover compound polish that uses wax to fill shallow abrasions. There's even a tool called a car scratch pen, which looks like a highlighter and applies a quick-drying lacquer to fill scrapes into clearcoat and primer. Whichever method you use, always clean the area well before you begin. Have Your VW Dealer Fix It For You More extensive scratches or dents from a collision will usually require professional attention. Not only will an experienced technician save you the time and trouble of attempting to repair it yourself, but they're also likely to do a better job. Have your paintwork and bodywork made to look like new today at Tom Bush Volkswagen. We've been providing local drivers with fine-looking vehicles and repair work since 1970.

Jacksonville, FL, is a city that offers plenty of date night options for couples. Whether you want to explore the city's arts and culture scene or enjoy a romantic evening out on the town, you're sure to find something that fits your taste. Here are some of our favorite date ideas in Jacksonville. 4 Great Date Night Ideas You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL Paint With a Twist Paint with a Twist studio along 1525 San Macro Boulevard is an excellent option for couples looking for a creative and fun date activity. It provides plenty of opportunities to express your creativity, but it can also be enriching when you create a beautiful piece with your significant other. It allows couples to unleash their imagination and share special moments as they re-create unique works of art. At Paint with a Twist, you can expect friendly instructors who will guide you through creating a masterpiece step-by-step. All materials are provided, so there's no need to bring paint or brushes. Plus, snacks and drinks are served during the session, which adds a touch of romance and fun to the whole experience. Please drink responsibly and in moderation. Be Still Float Studio If you are looking for a unique and creative way to spice up your romantic night, indulge in a spa date at Be Still Float Studio along 1050 Riverside Avenue. This spa offers visitors an immersive relaxation and rejuvenation experience with therapeutic flotation tanks, intimate massage rooms, and calming music. You can enter a sensory deprivation chamber where you can drift away in complete contentment under buoyant Epsom salt-infused water. Partners can connect on deeper levels by experiencing mindful touch and journeying into deeper states of consciousness enabled by the flotation chamber environment. more Theatre Jacksonville Theatre Jacksonville, Florida's oldest operating theater, makes a movie experience better with its classic charm and history. Located in downtown Jacksonville, Theatre Jacksonville showcases the latest blockbuster on its big screen while immersed in its glamorous art deco-style atmosphere. At intermission time, lovebirds can curl up with candy and popcorn while chatting or exchanging romantic gestures. Metropolitan Park Metropolitan Park, located on the waterside of downtown Jacksonville, offers beautiful views and a picturesque setting for enjoying each other's company in serene surroundings. Spend the evening strolling around, soaking in everything that nature offers, before settling down on one of the many lovely places for a cozy picnic dinner beneath the stars! Pack a large picnic basket in your spacious Volkswagen Taos SE ahead of time. Jacksonville provides something for everyone, whether you're seeking a romantic night out or an adventure to take your mind off things. And when you're ready to buy your next car, be sure to contact Tom Bush Volkswagen. We have a fantastic selection of pre-owned and new vehicles that would be perfect for a romantic evening.

Drive around comfortably in a spacious Volkswagen Taos or Tiguan to find the best wedding locations in and around Jacksonville, FL to host your dream wedding. Visit the exclusive Club Continental that offers Old World Florida charm, the historic Ribault Club on Fort George Island, and the Mediterranean-style Casa Marina Hotel, the epitome of the stylish elegance of the 1920s. 3 Popular Wedding Locations in Driving Distance of Jacksonville, FL 1. Club Continental The expansive Mediterranean mansion on the lush Club Continental estate at 2143 Astor Street in Orange Park has a romantic Old World Florida charm where couples can exchange vows in front of elegant Spanish-style arches on vibrant tile floors. The palatial estate voted one of the region's most romantic settings by local photographers, offers a variety of elegant indoor and outdoor spaces. Couples can confirm their commitment to each under the heavy branches of a 300-year-old oak tree draped with Spanish moss on the banks of the St. Johns River or in the impressive banquet hall. After the ceremony, the wedding party can wine and dine al fresco on the patio overlooking the magnificent manicured gardens. The club's event and culinary teams specialize in Continental-style cuisine and are devoted to turning your wedding dreams into reality. more 2. The Ribault Club The historic and elegant Ribault Club wedding venue at 11241 Fort George Road on Fort George Island in Jacksonville is a breathtaking 100-acre waterfront park with an exquisite mansion built in 1928. The unpretentious yet stylish and exclusive venue has many waterfront spaces on the lush green lawns along the Fort George River. The mansion is an architectural masterpiece with neoclassical elements, sweeping arches, and 36 awe-inspiring French doors that provide picturesque views over Talbot Island. The Ribault Club can accommodate 350 wedding guests and provide an event team who works with only the best caterers, florists, entertainers, and photographers in the area. 3. Casa Marina Hotel The iconic Mediterranean-style Casa Marina Hotel at 691 1 Street N. in Jacksonville Beach is a historic landmark dating back to 1925 and a perfect example of the glamour and style of the era. The hotel's Spanish-style white stucco façade and European ambiance provide a romantic backdrop for ceremonies on the beachfront terrace. You can exchange vows on the covered pavilion, the spacious patio surrounded by palm trees, on the rooftop patio with spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean, or in the banquet hall filled with antique accents and elaborate chandeliers. The hotel offers comprehensive wedding packages, an experienced staff, and gourmet cuisine. Wedding guests can overnight in luxurious rooms that reflect different eras in the hotel's history. These magnificent wedding venues provide unforgettable backdrops for your big day and unparalleled service from dedicated teams of professionals. While searching for the perfect wedding venue, visit Tom Bush Volkswagen today to find the ideal vehicle to take you and your loved one on an unforgettable honeymoon.

Properly inflated tires wear more evenly, last longer, improve gas mileage and keep you and your passengers safe while on the road. Your VW dealer recommends checking your tire pressure at least once a month. Here are a few key tips on how to properly check tire pressure. Tips From Your VW Dealer: How to Check Tire Pressure Start With Cold Tires Tire pressure is measured in pounds per square inch, or PSI. The recommended PSI is based on the pressure level in a cold tire. If you perform a pressure check on hot tires, you'll get an incorrect reading. The best time to check your tire pressure is first thing in the morning before you've driven anywhere. If this isn't possible, make sure you haven't driven your car for at least a few hours before you check your tire pressure. more Know Your Numbers You'll also want to know the right PSI for your tires before you check their pressure. The front and rear tires might have different recommended pressure levels, so it's important to write down the correct number for each tire before checking them with a gauge. There may also be different numbers for normal or heavy loads. You can find this information - for example, "35 PSI" - in your owner's manual or on a sticker inside the driver's side door frame. Choose Your Gauge There are two types of tire pressure gauges: battery-powered digital gauges and regular stick-type gauges. These can be purchased at any auto parts store or gas station. Both types of gauges are accurate, so it's simply a matter of personal preference regarding which one you use. To check the tire pressure, remove the cap from the tire's air valve and set it aside. Seat the gauge on the valve stem and press down to make a firm connection between the gauge and the valve stem. A firm connection will stop the hissing sound made by air escaping from the tire. Your gauge will now display the tire's PSI. Adjust Tire Pressure Compare the pressure you just measured with the manufacturer's recommendation. If the PSI reading is above the recommendation, push in the valve to let out some air. If the PSI reading is below the recommendation, use a home air compressor (or visit a gas station if you don't own one) to fill the tire with air until it has the correct level. Make sure you put the valve cap back on snugly and then do the same thing to the other three tires plus the spare. While checking the tire pressure on a car is a simple process that only takes a few minutes, there's often no substitute for the expertise of a qualified Volkswagen dealer. Whether you're in need of parts, service, or maybe even a beautiful new VW, visit Tom Bush Volkswagen today!

With September comes the end of the summer season and the beginning of a new season. To get you in the spirit of the impending fall season, we've compiled a list of some fun fall activities you can drive to from Jacksonville, FL. Each of these destinations is open for visitors during this time of year, so check them out before their peak autumn appeal ends! 3 Fun Fall Activities You Can Drive to From Jacksonville, FL Shands Island to See the Leaves Change Colors Shands Island is a beautiful place to see the leaves change colors during the fall season. The island is home to historic Coastal Gardens, where you can walk along the paths, which are lined with beautiful flowers and plants. Take your time and look around because there is so much to see. There are also several nature trails on the island, including the Oak Trail, the Live Oak Trail, and the Magnolia Trail. These trails lead you through areas where you can see the birds and wildlife thriving in their natural environment. The trails are open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the fall season when the leaves are changing colors. more Go to McLane's Pumpkin Farm McLane's Pumpkin Farm is an exciting place to take the family during the fall season. There are lots of fun activities for the whole family, including hayrides, a corn maze, a pick-your-own pumpkin patch, a play area for children, and a petting zoo. There are plenty of food and drink options to suit a variety of tastes. You can even make your visit an overnight stay with the option to sleep in a "tent" inside a ginormous fake pumpkin. This farm is open year-round, and it is especially beautiful in the fall season. The fields are filled with pumpkins, and there are plenty of activities and tasty treats to enjoy during your visit. This is also a great place to take photos and create memories. Visit the Corn Maze at Cheri's Cheri's Corn Maze is a great place to visit during the fall season. The maze is approximately one-half mile long, and there are a variety of paths you can take while walking through it. It is a great place to go with family and friends, as it is suitable for all ages. The maze is open during the fall season, and it is located just a few minutes from Jacksonville. It is a fun activity for all ages and a great way to get out of the house and enjoy the beautiful weather. The maze is beautifully decorated with corn stalks. It is a great place to take pictures and get some fall-themed photos. This is a fun activity for all ages, and it is suitable for individuals and groups. Hopefully, these suggestions will inspire you to enjoy a bit of the great outdoors this fall. With all of these stunning views to take in, you'll need a powerful car to transport you in style and comfort. Visit us at Tom Bush Volkswagen and let our team of experts introduce you to your new Volkswagen Taos.

Electricity can be strange and fickle. Damaged wiring, corroded connectors, and blown fuses are some problems that can occur due to age and wear. Regular services can prevent these issues, as our technicians will find and repair issues before a problem develops. As your VW dealer, we'd like you to know more about potential electrical problems that can occur. Electrical Problems? See Your VW Dealer Today Dead Battery The battery's most important function is to provide the power to start your engine. Its secondary purpose is to maintain the electrical systems like the lights, alarm, and other vital components when your engine is switched off. A battery has a limited life and usually needs to be replaced within three to five years. A battery can die due to other problems, like worn connectors or a weak alternator. We can test your battery's health with our state-of-the-art battery testing system. The tester subjects your battery to a variety of tests and identifies its strengths and weaknesses. It also gives valuable information on your battery's possible longevity. If the battery fails the tests, we can replace it while you wait. more Damaged or Broken Wiring Your VW has a huge amount of wiring that connects the alternator to every one of your car's electrical components. An engine is a very inhospitable place for wiring, as wires are subject to vibration, dirt, and even moisture. All of these issues are problems with electrical flow, and they can also damage the wiring system. The wiring is protected by thick rubber and plastic insulation, but wires can get damaged over time. Aged wiring can break, and broken wiring blocks the flow of electricity. The broken wiring can heat up as electricity continues to flow into it, and this can cause the wire's insulation to burn. Damaged wiring can cause electrical shorts and blown fuses, which create additional problems in the electrical system. Our technicians can trace the flow of electricity through the system and replace any damaged wiring or other issues. Dim Bulbs Headlight bulbs dim when they start to wear out. They can also dim due to problems with the alternator, corroded sockets, or damaged wiring. The bulbs require a steady supply of electricity to function. Any fluctuations in the electrical supply will cause damage and shorten their lifespan. A cracked lens, for example, can allow water into the headlight recess. The water will steadily corrode the bulb socket. This will lead to repeated bulb failures and additional problems in the electrical system. In this example, we'd test the socket and install a new one to fix the issue. If you experience any problems with the electrical system, call us right away at Tom Bush Volkswagen.

When you purchase a new vehicle from your VW dealer, you'll get the benefits of Volkswagen's industry-leading warranty coverage. But what exactly does that coverage entail? We'll take a closer look at each aspect of Volkswagen's new car warranty in our guide below to give you the information you need. What's Included in VW's 2022 New Car Warranty? Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty The bulk of the coverage you'll enjoy as the owner of a new VW is included within your vehicle's bumper-to-bumper warranty. This covers the vast majority of the components within your vehicle, with only a few exceptions. If any of these components fail as a result of a deficiency in the manufacture of your vehicle, you'll be covered for a replacement at no extra charge. This coverage lasts for four years or 50,000 miles of driving, whichever comes first. more Powertrain Warranty Among the components not covered under your bumper-to-bumper warranty are the critical parts of your vehicle that make it drive, including the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. Should any of these components fail due to a factory defect, you'll be entitled to have them replaced with Volkswagen covering the expenses. This warranty has the same limits as the bumper-to-bumper warranty. Battery Warranty The warranty coverage your new VW has also provides protection for your battery. If the battery fails within the first three years or 36,000 miles after your purchase, you'll be covered for a replacement at no additional charge. This helps to ensure the vehicle's electrical components are all functioning properly. Parts and Accessories Warranty For additional protection for the components of your vehicle from factory defects, the parts and accessories warranty also comes with your vehicle. This will allow you to replace any of the official Volkswagen parts used in your vehicle that are found to be defective. This coverage extends for one year after your purchase or 12,000 miles of driving. Federal Emissions Warranty Various parts of your vehicle, such as the catalytic converter, function to reduce the emissions that your vehicle produces from burning fuel. The federal emissions warranty covers these components to ensure that you meet the emissions regulations stipulated by the law. This helps to ensure the environmental impact of your travels is mitigated and lasts for eight years or 80,000 miles. Learn More at Your VW Dealer Still have questions about what your new VW's warranty covers? The friendly team at your local dealership can tell you more. We're happy to answer any questions that remain so that you know exactly what sort of coverage you're riding with. Any questions you have about the quality Volkswagen vehicles in our inventory or the warranty coverage they come with can be answered when you visit our dealership. Get the information you need at Tom Bush Volkswagen!

Jacksonville, FL residents are lucky to have the Atlantic Ocean on the east side and the St. Johns River flowing through the center. It provides them with a multitude of possibilities nearby for a completely different swimming experience. Keep reading to learn about some of our favorites, and visit them all in your VW Jetta! Take the VW and Check Out These 5 Great Swimming Spots Near Jacksonville, FL Ichetucknee Springs State Park The Ichetucknee River is six miles long and runs through nine breathtaking springs. Visitors can enjoy an array of activities, such as a leisurely swim, snorkeling, or diving into the 50-foot-deep Blue Hole. There are canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards to rent or slip in a tube and float along the lazy river. After the trip, just board a tram to return to the starting point. The park is open from 8 am to dark, and parking is just $6. more Blue Spring State Park This state park, which has the biggest spring on the St. Johns River, provides a variety of water sports, including scuba diving, snorkeling, tubing, and much more. You can pitch a tent, go for a trek, or set up a picnic around the lake. If you're visiting during winter, keep an eye out for manatees that poke around when the water temperature dips. Parking ranges from $4 to $6, depending on the number of occupants in the vehicle. Bob's River Place Bob's River Place is located on the Suwannee River and was converted from private property to an open venue where visitors can enjoy a casual swim, water slides, rope swings, leaping platforms, and floating rafts. Please note that there are no lifeguards at Bob's River Place, so visitors should take every safety precaution possible. There's an $8 entry fee, and it's open from 11 am to 6 pm on weekends and closes for the season after Memorial Day. Juniper Springs Recreation Area Juniper Springs, located in the center of Ocala National Forest, is a big swim hole with both a shallow portion and deep waters complete with platforms for jumping. The Juniper Run is a seven-mile canoe or kayak trip along the creek's crystal blue waters. While the run eventually becomes a relaxing float, the beginning may be challenging with its tiny tunnels and fallen branches. It's open from 8 am to 8 pm with a $5 entry fee. Spring Park Pool This spring-fed pool was renovated last year to improve the spring's outfall and to install a new two-story pavilion and water splash feature. You can view the spring while enjoying a dip in the luxurious pool from Tuesday to Sunday. It opens at 11 am and closes at 7 pm with a $4 entry fee. Stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen today for all of your automotive needs!

An overheating engine can lead to damage to vital and sensitive components. Your engine operates at a high temperature, and it's the job of the cooling system to keep the temperature under control. If you have a car overheating, your VW dealer can fix it for you. These are a few of the possible causes of overheating. Advice From Your VW Dealer: 3 Likely Reasons for Car Overheating Damaged Radiator Fan Your VW cooling system uses air inflow through the radiator grille to cool your engine. This system works perfectly when your car is moving, and the faster your car moves, the faster the engine cools. When you're idling, however, airflow is greatly reduced. For situations like this, your engine has a radiator fan. This radiator fan is attached to the rear of the radiator When the switch registers an increased temperature, and your car isn't moving, the fan starts. The fan flows cold air over the back of the radiator tubes to remove engine heat. The fan can fail, and a broken fan won't be able to cool your engine. Our technicians will repair the fan or replace the radiator depending on the level of damage. more Clogged Radiator The radiator in your VW acts as a heat exchanger, where hot air from the engine is replaced by cooler outside air. Liquid coolant flows through your engine and absorbs heat as it travels. Once the coolant reaches the radiator, it flows into rows of thin metal tubes. Air flows in through the radiator grille, and it cools the hot coolant as it passes over the tubes. The coolant, however, can carry other things besides heat. It can also absorb rust particles, dirt, and other debris from the engine. All this debris is carried to the radiator and deposited there when the coolant flows out again. In time, this debris can clog your radiator and prevent it from cooling your engine. Our technicians can flush your radiator to fix this problem. Lack of Coolant Coolant is essential for your engine, as it carries the heat to the radiator for cooling. The hot air produced by the engine is removed by air flowing into your car, and the now-cool coolant circulates through your engine again. The cooling system operates at high speed and under high pressure to control your engine temperature. The coolant operates in a closed system. This closed system means a lack of coolant can only be due to a coolant leak. We'll trace the leak to its source and repair the problem. Once the cooling system is sealed, we'll refill the coolant, and your cooling system will work correctly again. If your VW is showing any signs of overheating, call our service department immediately at Tom Bush Volkswagen.

Your VW's transmission is an integral part of getting you from one place to another. Over time, parts may become worn or damaged, which means your car won't run smoothly or efficiently. There are some signs that will let you know you need transmission service from a VW dealer. 6 Signs You Need Transmission Service From a VW Dealer 1. Your Vehicle Won't Stay in Gear After starting your vehicle, if you shift your vehicle into gear but it won't move, this could be a sign that you're having some major issues. There are many different reasons why your car won't stay in gear, including low fluid levels or problems with the shifter cable, valve body, or shifter. Taking your vehicle to a professional and having them diagnose and fix the problem is in your best interest. 2. There Are Delayed Shifts While driving down the road, if you notice that your vehicle takes longer to shift into another gear, this could be an indicator that there's something wrong with your transmission. Don't delay getting this issue looked at. The longer you delay having this issue looked at, the more your engine could get damaged. more 3. Your Car Misses Gears In addition to delayed shifts, you might also notice that your VW misses certain gears. Again, getting this taken care of as soon as possible will prevent more wear and tear on your vehicle, as well as ensure that you have a smooth ride. 4. You Notice High Revving or Slipping Both high revving and slipping can be caused by a variety of different issues, including a fluid leak, wear and tear on internal components, water intrusion, or contamination. Your clutches may also be worn, or other parts may be going bad. No matter the cause, high revving or slipping is not good and should be taken care of as soon as possible. 5. Your Vehicle Is Leaking Fluid Your VW requires a variety of different fluids to keep it running properly, and any of them leaking from your vehicle is cause for concern. However, if you notice liquid that is bright red, brown, or dark red, this indicates you're leaking transmission fluid. Take care of this as soon as possible to keep your vehicle on the road. 6. You Experience a Burning Smell The burning smell could be the result of several different issues, including the gears or other components grinding against each other or fluid dripping onto parts of the engine and getting super hot. Don't try to figure out the source of the smell, just get your VW into a professional as quickly as you can. If you notice any of these warning signs, getting your vehicle in for repairs is essential. You can schedule a service appointment or look for new vehicles by visiting Tom Bush Volkswagen today.

If you're looking for a great way to spend a weekend, consider visiting one of the many state parks near Jacksonville, FL. These parks offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, as well as education and enjoyment of Florida's natural beauty. Whether you're into camping, hiking, fishing, or simply taking in the scenery, there's a park perfect for you! Discover Nature With Your VW: 3 Great State Parks Near Jacksonville, FL 1. Big Talbot Island State Park Big Talbot Island State Park is a nature lover's paradise. The park is located on the northeast coast of Florida and is home to various plant and animal life. Visitors can hike through maritime forests, wade in tidal pools, and explore the remains of an old shipwreck. The island is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 200 species of birds calling the park home. In addition to its natural beauty, the park also offers a variety of amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and a campground. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or an adventurous weekend getaway, Big Talbot Island State Park is the perfect destination. more 2. Amelia Island State Park Amelia Island State Park is one of the many beautiful parks in Florida. The park is on Amelia Island, a barrier island off the coast of northeast Florida. The island is home to miles of beaches, as well as a variety of salt marshes, tidal creeks, and dunes. The park protects over 200 acres of wilderness, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Amelia Island State Park also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, kayaking, and bird watching. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and hiking in the park. Amelia Island State Park is a perfect place to enjoy the natural beauty of Florida. 3. Huguenot Memorial Park Huguenot Memorial Park is a state park located on the St. Johns River in Jacksonville, FL. The park is named for the Huguenots, French Protestants who settled in the area in the 16th and 17th centuries. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, as well as a variety of historical sites. Visitors can hike, bike through the park, fish from the river, or enjoy the scenery. Huguenot Memorial Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and learn about the history of Jacksonville. The brand new 2023 Volkswagen Atlas is a great car to take on any of these parks near Jacksonville. It has plenty of space to store all your gear, and it's a comfortable ride for the driver and passengers. Make sure you stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen in Jacksonville to find a car that fits your needs.

The catalytic converter is an important part of your Volkswagen exhaust system and helps reduce harmful emissions by catalyzing a series of chemical reactions. These reactions also increase the car's performance and efficiency. Here are a few ways to know when you might have to head to your VW dealer for a replacement cat converter. From Your VW Dealer: Signs That Your VW Needs a New Catalytic Converter Sulfur/Rotten Egg Smell If there's an odor that smells like rotten eggs coming from your car's exhaust, chances are that there's a problem with the cat converter. Normally, gasoline contains small amounts of sulfur and nitrogen oxide that get broken down by the converter into odorless gases. If a faulty converter is failing to break down these molecules, the exhaust system will produce a strong and unpleasant smell. In this case, the converter could be damaged due to excessive carbon buildup, overheating, or severe road bumps. more Rattling Sound Inside the cat converter is a ceramic honeycomb structure that provides a large surface area where chemical reactions can take place. If the converter isn't replaced when needed or experiences premature wear, this structure will deteriorate to the point that it breaks apart. Its broken pieces will start to bounce around within its housing while the car is in motion, which you'll hear as a rattling noise. At first, the sound might only be noticeable when starting the car, but it's certain to get worse over time, becoming constant as the converter's honeycomb breaks into even more pieces. Decreased Fuel Economy Cat converters should allow exhaust gases to exit the vehicle freely. If it becomes too damaged or clogged, it will trap those gases, which prevents outside air from coming into the engine. When the engine can't take in enough fresh air needed for good combustion, more fuel will be brought in to make up for that deficiency. This leads to greatly reduced gas mileage and more frequent trips to the pump. Car Fails to Pass Smog Testing Oftentimes, drivers won't find out that their cat converter has gone bad until their car is taken to an emissions test and fails. Without a properly functioning converter, the number of toxic gases emitted from a vehicle's exhaust system skyrockets, so there's little hope of passing a smog test. Besides the cat converter, you'll also want a mechanic to inspect the fuel injection system, mass air flow sensor, and oxygen sensor. Though you don't need to replace the cat converter right away when experiencing these signs, your car will be suffering from degraded performance and contributing much more air pollution. Schedule an appointment with our service department at Tom Bush Volkswagen today and we'll help ensure that your car is running at its best!