Dodge Ram Diesel NOx Sensor Issues and Exhaust Leaks

Having had a similar issue on my 2002 Dodge Dakota with its diesel engine, I can share my experience. I have some basic automotive knowledge from working on simpler repairs. The exhaust system showed similar symptoms, triggering the check engine light due to a malfunctioning NOx sensor. After checking the error codes, it turned out the nitrogen oxide readings were inconsistent because of a damaged wiring harness connecting to the sensor. My workshop found that the cable connection to the NOx sensor was partially corroded and had a loose fit, affecting the pollution control system readings. They fixed the wiring and properly secured the connector for 95€. The repair resolved both the check engine light and the exhaust issues. The air-fuel ratio problems you mentioned could definitely be related, as faulty NOx sensor readings can cause the engine management system to run an incorrect mixture. To provide more specific guidance, could you share: The exact error code you received, Whether you notice any performance issues, If the exhaust smell seems different than usual, The current mileage on your Ram This would help determine if your situation matches what I encountered and whether you might be dealing with the same root cause.

Thanks for the detailed explanation. My truck has 119097 KM on the clock and just had the catalytic converter inspected last month during regular service. My error code is P0401, and I definitely notice reduced power when accelerating. The exhaust system seems to be running louder than usual with a slight sulfur smell. The air-fuel ratio issue might explain the power loss, but I want to get a second opinion before investing in repairs. Anyone else face this specific error code and know if the NOx sensor could be the main culprit?

Based on your P0401 code and symptoms, this seems to match my Dakota's situation closely. After seeing your error code, I am even more convinced we faced the same issue since my emission sensor troubles also generated a P0401. The sulfur smell and power loss you describe mirror my experience exactly. The faulty nitrogen oxide readings from the damaged sensor caused incorrect air-fuel ratio adjustments, leading to poor performance and that distinctive exhaust odor. What ultimately fixed my truck was not just the wiring repair I mentioned before, the workshop also found that the NOx sensor itself had degraded internally. The total repair ended up at 380€ including parts and labor. After replacement, both the power loss and exhaust issues cleared up completely. A quick note on your recent catalytic converter inspection, sensor failure can sometimes be mistaken for catalytic issues, since a malfunctioning emission sensor can create similar symptoms. Having that recent inspection actually helps rule out other potential causes. The reduced power during acceleration is a telltale sign of sensor failure affecting engine management. My suggestion would be to have the complete NOx sensor assembly checked, including all wiring connections and mounting points.

Thanks for the input. After comparing my situation with these responses, I will definitely have my NOx sensor checked first. The matching P0401 code and similar symptoms with the Dakota case are too close to ignore. I will have my workshop inspect the complete exhaust system, focusing on the emission sensor and its wiring harness. My main concern was the air-fuel ratio being off, but now I understand how a faulty nitrogen oxide sensor could cause these issues. Will update once I get it properly diagnosed and fixed. Good to know the repair costs might be around 380€ if the sensor needs replacement. Has anyone dealt with aftermarket sensors, or should I stick with OEM parts?