Ford Escape Catalytic Converters

Three Ways to Ensure that Your Ford Escape Catalytic Converter is Working Properly

With catalytic converters, exhaust emissions nowadays are much friendlier to the environment. Getting your Ford Escape catalytic converter damaged will surely set you a back for quite a large sum. Prevent catcon-related problems by doing some of the maintenance tips below:

• Give it ample time to reach its optimum operating temperature.

Catalytic converters need to reach a certain temperature before it can effectively and efficiently clean and regenerate its catalyst. If you frequently take your SUV on short trips, it's highly probable that you're driving your catcon to the brink of failure. Avoid this as much as possible, your catalytic converter needs to be driven at high speeds for a long distance every now and then to ensure that it's kept in tiptop shape.

• Check the integrity of all engine components that are associated with the catcon.

One of the best ways to lengthen the life of your Ford Escape catalytic converter is to make sure that all components connected to it are in good working condition. The first thing you should check is your vehicle's intake-manifold gasket. A damaged intake-manifold gasket results to coolant leakage, escaped coolant will eventually contaminate the catcon and cause it to break down. You should also inspect the oxygen sensor to prevent engine misfires that will cause the catcon to run on a rich fuel mixture. Lastly, you shouldn't forget to change your oil the moment that your vehicle covers a distance of 5,000 miles. Low-quality oil may contaminate your catcon and render it useless.

• Practice cautious driving habits.

By driving more cautiously, you can prevent complications that are brought about by a dented or broken catcon. Keep this in mind every time you drive. There's no way you can prevent potholes or speed bumps while you're on the road. The best thing you can do to keep them from damaging your catcon is to be extra careful when driving over them.

• Keep an eye out for signs of trouble.

There are various signs that may warn you of a catalytic converter that's about to fail. The easiest one to keep an eye on is the check engine light. This is will come in handy in case your catcon is running on a rich fuel mixture; tend to your catcon as soon as you can if you see it light up. You should also be alert for any noticeable decline in your car's performance.

Summary

• Regular maintenance is essential to ensuring that your Ford Escape remains in great condition. One component that may need to be changed after a couple of years is your Ford Escape catalytic converter.

• Some of the common problems that come with a malfunctioning catalytic converter include loud rattling noises, stalling and engine misfire, clogging and contamination, and overheating due to improper fuel mixture.

• A catalytic converter must be replaced every 100,000 miles.

• Ford Escape catalytic converter replacement costs will vary depending on your vehicle’s specific year model. OE replacement parts will generally cost you anywhere between $45 to $760. These are sold individually, as an assembly, or in sets of two.

Crossover SUVs are becoming more and more popular thanks to their cargo-carrying capabilities and reliability. One crossover SUV that has become a favorite among American families is the Ford Escape. Since its launch in 2000, Ford has sold over 4 million units of this model.

Regular maintenance is essential to ensuring that your Ford Escape remains in great condition. Over time, some mechanical and electrical components may require repairs and replacement. One component that may need to be changed after a couple of years is your Ford Escape catalytic converter.

Here are some of the common problems that come with a malfunctioning catalytic converter. It is strongly recommended to consult a licensed mechanic if your vehicle is exhibiting any of the symptoms below.

Loud rattling noises

Noises coming from underneath the Ford Escape could be a sign of a faulty catalytic converter. This is often caused by a rapid change in temperature which results in the cracking of the ceramic substrate and the converter housing contracting. The sound comes from the converter coming into contact with another substance of a different temperature.

Stalling and engine misfire

A bad catalytic converter may cause your vehicle’s oxygen sensor to fail. The 02 sensor is designed to monitor the performance of your catalytic converter. If this sensor fails, wrong information is fed into the vehicle’s computer system, resulting in stalling or jerking during acceleration.

Clogging and contamination

A faulty cylinder head gasket can cause engine coolant to leak and contaminate the exhaust system. Not only will this fluid contaminate the catalysts, but it may also result in clogging in the catalytic converter. As the movement of exhaust gases is restricted, the lack of oxygen will cause engine performance to become sluggish.

Overheating and improper fuel mixture

A fuel mixture that runs too rich can cause temperatures to get hotter than usual, resulting in catalytic converter failure. Left on its own, the high temperatures may cause the catalytic converter to melt and cause clogging in the exhaust system. One sign that points to an improper fuel mixture is the smell of rotten eggs coming from your exhaust pipe. This odor is a sign that there is too much hydrogen sulfide in the system.

The average service life of a catalytic converter is 100,000 miles. It is an important component of the exhaust system that converts toxic exhaust gases into substances that are less harmful to the environment. Having a bad or malfunctioning cat in your vehicle will not only minimize your exhaust system’s ability to reduce the hazardous pollutants emitted from your vehicle but also cause reduced engine performance.

Ford Escape catalytic converter replacement costs will vary depending on your vehicle’s specific year model. OE replacement parts will generally cost you anywhere between $45 to $760. These are sold individually, as an assembly, or in sets of two.

There have been four generations of the Ford Escape, each with parts of varying styles and fit. To find the right catalytic converter for your vehicle, you may use our website’s search feature. Simply type in your Escape’s correct model year to browse through our selection of compatible parts.

The catalytic converter of your Ford Escape is there to keep your emission free from toxic compounds that may harm the environment. When your Ford Escape catalytic converter gets damaged, expect your vehicle's overall performance to get affected as well. So diagnose problems before they get worse by watching out for the following signs of a failing catalytic converter:

Unpleasant sulfuric smell

Have your ever caught a whiff of rotten eggs coming from your car's exhaust system? This is a common indication of a catalytic converter that's running on an improper air-to-fuel ratio. The most common reason why this problem occurs is a faulty oxygen sensor that causes engine misfires. Cleaning the emission coming from a rich fuel mixture is a tough job for your catalytic converter. If this keeps up for a long period of time, your catcon will eventually melt down due to overworking. Before you go and get a catcon replacement, you need to confirm the source of your problem first. Check the oxygen sensor and make sure that it's working perfectly fine. You have to replace the component that's causing your catcon to malfunction. If you don't do this, your catalytic converter will just get damaged no matter how many times your replace it.

Clacking or rattling noises

Is your catalytic converter making unusually disturbing sounds lately? Don't just ignore persistent rattles or clacking noises because this is a sure sign that there's something seriously wrong with your catcon and it'll only be a matter of time before it totally melts down. If you're hearing rattling or clacking sounds from your car but you're still not sure if your catcon is the source, you can test it through lightly tapping it using a mallet or your hands. If something vibrates or rattles inside, then you may need to replace your Ford Escape catalytic converter.

Decreased fuel efficiency and engine power

The most unfortunate effect that a damaged catalytic converter may have on your SUV is low fuel economy and a noticeable decline in its engine performance. A clogged up catcon is usually the root cause of this dilemma. You can diagnose this problem by conducting a backpressure test. It's also a good idea to inspect the fuel injector, spark plug, and exhaust valves to see if they're all in good condition. A catalytic converter gets clogged up when due to contamination.