2000 Volkswagen Passat exhaust system problems

Dt*: the contact stated the vehicle was parked for over an hour, when the heat shield on the top of the exhaust system began to smolder. No indicator lamp illuminated prior to the problem. The fire department was notified and came, although no flames erupted. The fire department could not determine the cause of the smoke. However, an independent mechanic inspected the vehicle and discovered the cause of the smoke was the heat shield.

The engine light has been on for a while. I had the catalytic converter replaced last year in 08/05 when it initially occurred. The problem went off. It came back on just yesterday 07/11/2006. The message says it is emission workshop. I have not taken it to a VW dealer, however, I suspect it is the same catalytic converter problem. Another problem I have had is the stop - brake fault message. The ABS light is on while the brake light is illuminating.