Ford Escape Catalytic Converter Problems
by Horacio Garcia
The catalytic converter in the Ford Escape is the part of the exhaust system, which changes or converts harmful chemicals, such as hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide, into cleaner less harmful emissions. Sensor monitor how efficiently these chemicals are converter and when a catalytic converter has problems, the engine in the Ford Escape will not work at its highest performance.
Catalytic Converter Clogs
The Ford Escape has many reports about the catalytic converter clogging. The catalytic converter is honeycomb-shaped and can melt when overheated. This honeycomb generally runs at a temperature of 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and when the harmful chemicals begin to build-up in the catalytic converter, the operating temperature increases. When the operating temperature increases in the catalytic converter, the materials which make up the honeycomb shape of the converter begin to melt causing the converter to clog. This clogging does not allow exhaust to be converted and backs up into the engine causing it to stall or choke the engine. The catalytic converter in the Ford Escape must be replaced to correct this problem.
Catalytic Converter Leaks
The catalytic converter has reports about a loud noise developing under the Ford Escape. This loud noise is attributed to the catalytic converter leaking from around the seals or connections. The exhaust system has several connection points which is attached together with gaskets, bolts and nuts. As road debris and pollutants build-up on these connections, the connection begin to deteriorate and fail causing a leak in the exhaust system. This leak creates a loud noise when operating the Ford Escape. The Escape owner must inspect the exhaust system, particularly around the catalytic converter connection, to determine if there is a leak in the exhaust system and replace the gasket or damaged connections in order to correct this problem.
O2 Sensor Failure
One of the most common problems with the catalytic converter in the Ford Escape is an O2 sensor failure. The O2 sensor monitors the performance of the catalytic converter and forwards this information to the Escape's computer system. When the O2 sensor fails, the engine in the Escape will begin to stall, misfire, choke or jerk during acceleration. Replacing the O2 sensor corrects this problem, but the sensor may not last long because the catalytic converter can be the source of the O2 sensor failure. The catalytic converter can fail to convert the harmful chemical over time because of a breakdown or worn filtering system. The catalytic converter must be replaced when this problem develops on the Ford Escape.
References
Writer Bio
Horacio Garcia has been writing since 1979, beginning his career as the spokesperson for Trinity Broadcast Network. Within 10 years Garcia was being called upon to write speeches and scripts for several state and federal congressmen, local broadcast networks and publications such as "Readers Digest." He received his bachelor's degree in public relations from Argosy University.
