The catalytic converter’s location in your Dodge Caravan might vary depending on the model year, but it’s typically found on the underside of the vehicle adjacent to the exhaust manifold.
Catalytic converter theft has become a nationwide problem in the US, with reported thefts spiking in 2021 and showing no signs of abating. If you’re a vehicle owner, it’s important that you know where the catalytic converter is located on your car, how you can protect it, and signs to watch for that might indicate that yours is due for replacement.
Where is the catalytic converter on a Dodge Caravan?
The Dodge Caravan was sold between 1984 and 2020, and the exact location of the catalytic converter may vary according to the model year. In general, it’s on the underside of the vehicle near the exhaust. It looks sort of like a muffler and should be between the exhaust pipe and the intake manifolds.
What are the benefits of a catalytic converter on a Dodge Caravan?
All this recent fuss about catalytic converters might make you wonder: What exactly does a catalytic converter do and why are they something that thieves go out of their way to steal?
The catalytic converter on your Dodge Caravan (or any vehicle) is a crucial part of the exhaust system. It helps to reduce emissions by converting hazardous exhaust gasses, like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, into less toxic substances. Not only would your vehicle not meet EPA emission standards without a catalytic converter, but it’s actually illegal to drive a vehicle without one.
What makes catalytic converters valuable is the mix of rare metals that act as the catalyst for the conversion process—things like rhodium, palladium, and platinum. This is why they’re such an expensive part to replace and why they have a lot of value in the scrap metal industry.
How to protect the catalytic converter on your Dodge Caravan
Some makes and models are more likely to have their catalytic converters stolen than others. Sometimes it’s because the catalytic converter is especially easy to access or sometimes it’s because certain models have a particularly high amount of precious metal in them.
The Dodge Caravan might not be at the top of the list of vehicles that are most targeted by catalytic converter thieves
, but that doesn’t mean you’re not at risk. Here are a few things you can do to reduce the chances of being a victim of catalytic converter theft:
Install an anti-theft device. Devices like the CatClamp®
and the CatStrap™
are some of the more popular choices, but a cage, alarm, or shield can also be effective. Park in a garage or a well-lit area. A garage is the safest place to park your Caravan. If you have to park on the street or in a driveway, make sure it’s as well-lit as possible (and therefore an unattractive target).
Place your VIN on the catalytic converter. This won’t stop it from being stolen, but it will make it more difficult to fence and easier to track. Feeling sassy? Include a little greeting along with your VIN to whoever might get their hands on it.
Last but not least, be sure that your car insurance policy includes comprehensive coverage
. If your catalytic converter is stolen, you’ll need to have this kind of coverage in order to be able to file a claim for replacement. What to do if your catalytic converter is stolen
Walking out to your car to discover a missing catalytic converter is pretty unpleasant. If it does happen, here’s what you need to do:
Document the theft. Take pictures of the exhaust pipe area and the spot the converter is missing from.
File a police report—you’ll likely need the report number for an insurance claim.
If you have comprehensive insurance, submit a claim as soon as you can.
Look into using an aftermarket catalytic converter as a replacement—this is not only cheaper, but may also serve to deter thieves in the future.
Consider installing an anti-theft device once your new catalytic converter is in place.
When to replace the catalytic converter on a Dodge Caravan
Like any other vehicle part, a catalytic converter will eventually wear out. On average, a typical catalytic converter has a lifespan of about 10 years. Keep an eye out for the following signs of a catalytic converter that’s due to be replaced:
Diminished acceleration or poor engine performance
Exhaust fumes
that are particularly dark or foul-smelling—a rotten egg odor is a dead giveawayExcessive heat from the underside of the vehicle
If you’re seeing any of these signs, then take your Caravan to a mechanic for diagnosis. Or if you have one, use an onboard diagnostics (OBD) scanner to try to narrow down the source of the problem.
You may just need to replace a part of the catalytic converter, which is less involved (and less expensive). But if you do need to replace the whole thing, it can be an expensive repair. On average, it costs around $2,000 to replace the catalytic converter on a Dodge Caravan.
All new Dodge Caravans had a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty. However, there is a federally mandated emissions warranty
of eight years or 80,000 for some emission components, and the catalytic converter is one of them. So depending on the model year, mileage, and reason for failure, your Caravan’s faulty catalytic converter could still be under warranty. If you’ve passed the warranty period or the cat converter just needs replacement due to wear and tear, then you’ll have to foot the bill.
How to replace a catalytic converter
Replacing a catalytic converter isn’t the kind of repair and maintenance most people can do at home. So unless you’re really mechanically inclined and have the tools and set up to do the work, it’s a job that’s best left to a professional.
If you decide to do your own shopping and/or repair, make sure to thoroughly research the part number that you’ll need for your make and model year, and aim for an OEM-level replacement.
It’s an expensive part for sure, but cutting a lot of corners to cut down on expenses can end up costing you more in the future in terms of failed emissions tests and more repairs.
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