Dodge Ram 1500 Van Catalytic Converter

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Danger Signs: A Dodge Ram 1500 Van Catalytic Converter Troubleshooting Guide

If you want an eco-friendly Dodge Ram, then make sure your catalytic converter's doing its job properly. Carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons don't stand a chance against this emissions control weapon, but they will make their way out of your vehicle faster than you can say 'catalytic' once your converter fails. A significant increase in emissions level, a sudden drop in gas mileage, a decrease in engine power, and, of course, a failed emissions test are just some of the problems you have to deal with when your Dodge Ram 1500 Van catalytic converter becomes faulty. A bit of troubleshooting may help you find the root of these problems and possibly even fix some of them. We've listed some of the catcon danger signs below to help you out.

Rattling noise

Any unusual noise coming from the vehicle can be extremely annoying and disturbing. If your catalytic converter's performance seems to be bit off lately, then you'll most likely hear a rattling noise coming from it. This is usually caused by thermal shock or an extreme change in temperature. When a heated converter is exposed to a cooling agent, such as snow, the ceramic substrate inside it cracks and its housing contracts. The damaged converter usually creates an odd rattling noise when it hits another substance. To test your converter for broken ceramic substrate, tap it lightly with a rubber mallet. If you hear a rattling noise with each tap, then it means the substrate is broken and your converter's already damaged beyond repair. Replace it right away to keep harmful emissions at bay.

Acceleration problems

Loss of power and speed is usually one of the most common danger signs of catalytic converter failure. When the catcon overheats or encounters thermal problems, your engine will suffer due to lack of fuel. As a result, you'll experience difficulty accelerating or running the vehicle. To check whether your converter's causing these problems, inspect it for signs of fuel leakage or thermal failure. Immediately replace the faulty converter to restore normal vehicle operation.