1999 Volkswagen Jetta Catalytic Converter

1999 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
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BGPRINCIPESSA
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Engine Performance problem
1999 Volkswagen Jetta Automatic 75000 miles

There are 2 codes showing up for my car - one is a bad catalytic converter and the other is "misfire" which I've been told implies basically a tune-up. I have been having issues with my car recently where it seems to hesitate when I accelerate but then will suddenly rush forward, and I've also noticed less power going up hills. I know these are both symptoms of a bad catalytic converter. My question is: if I get the tune-up, will this help with the other matters, and mean that I could possibly not have to replace the cat. converter right away? Or would there already be too much damage, and it needs to be replaced?

Also: I had my car checked a few months back, and was told that there was a problem with the O2 sensor, but this code didn't come up this time. I have also read that a problem with the O2 sensor can cause the computer to misread as a cat. converter issue.
Sep 15, 2010 at 12:29 PM
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RASMATAZ
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Lack of acceleration,chugging,hesitating,jerking,bogging,misfiring etc. could be caused by one of the following below:

Oxygen sensor.
Catalytic converter.
Fuel injectors dirty/sticking.
Mass airflow sensor/Airflow meter.
Throttle position sensor.
Crankshaft position sensor
Knock sensor
Manifold absolute pressure sensor.
EGR Valve
Fuel pressure regulator leaking or defective fuel pump.
False air leakage.
Fuel contamination.
Foul/defective spark plugs.
Open spark plug wires.
Ignition coil/Coil packs defective.
Incorrect ignition timing.
Cap and rotor.

Note:If it doesn't apply disregard it.
Sep 15, 2010 at 8:04 PM