There can be a few reasons for a catalytic converter to go bad. One of the causes could be clogs. Other reasons include plugs not working right, and bad exhaust valves.
A catalytic converter should NEVER go bad unless something causes it such as a RICH or a LEAN condition. What is a "RICH OR A LEAN CONDITION"?
No, the catalytic converter is downstream from the EGR valve so it has no effect on it.
They can become clogged or they can burn out.
A bad coil can damage a converter. If the engine is misfiring, it will cause raw fuel to get into the converter and that can cause failure.
Yes. If a coil is bad causing one or more cylinders to not fire, this allows raw unburned fuel to enter the catalytic converter, where it is burned. This can ruin a converter.
the shop I go to said that my 2000 Jetta would not pass the smog check when the catalytic converter went bad.
It is possible but highly unlikely.
Yes, the unburnt fuel from poor timing will enter the converter and slowly destroy it.
A foul smell is the most common sign of a bad catalytic converter. If you smell what seems to be a rotten egg and it gets stronger over time, the catalytic converter is not working properly. A large drop in your fuel economy may be a sign that your catalytic converter is going bad or is blocked. A lack of power, especially at high speeds, may be a sign that the catalytic converter is going, or has gone, bad.A vehicle that stalls during idle, or idles rough, may have a blocked or bad catalytic converter. Your catalytic converter may be blocked if you experience bucking or hesitation while trying to accelerate. Additionally, your vehicle may run at a higher than normal temperature. A catalytic converter typically doesn't go bad without an underlying cause. A mechanic should be able to find the original problem and may not have to replace the converter.
Yes, internal coolant consumption can damage a catalytic converter.
Yes it would but that doesn't mean it is the cat
This does not seem to be the cause of a bad catalytic converter. A converter is there to convert harmful toxins into harmful ones and you will know if it goes bad if your gas mileage suddenly worsens or your RPGs are going up but the car does not go any faster. If your car is sounding funny and has an odd smell, then it might be something to do with the heater core.