Flashing CEL & Exhaust Leak on Town & Country Van

Just went through something similar with my 2015 Chrysler Grand Caravan. The check engine light started flashing with identical symptoms, rough idle and exhaust smell. Initial scan revealed a failing oxygen sensor, but the real problem was more extensive. The oxygen sensor malfunction was actually a symptom of a cracked catalytic converter. The crack was causing exhaust gases to leak, which then confused the oxygen sensor readings. This created a cycle where the engine kept getting incorrect fuel mixture signals. The repair required: Complete catalytic converter replacement, New oxygen sensor installation, Exhaust manifold gasket replacement This is definitely a serious issue that needs immediate attention. Driving with these symptoms can cause further engine damage and the exhaust fumes in the cabin are a safety concern. The faulty oxygen sensor readings can also lead to increased fuel consumption and potential engine misfires. A proper diagnosis should include: Full exhaust system inspection, Computer diagnostic scan, Smoke test to locate exact leak points, Testing oxygen sensor voltage readings Make sure the shop checks the entire exhaust system, as these issues often cascade from one component to another. The catalytic converter especially needs thorough inspection since its failure can trigger multiple sensor malfunctions.

Thanks for sharing your experience. This sounds exactly like what my Chrysler was doing. Mine also had that rough idle and exhaust leak that turned out to be connected to the oxygen sensor malfunction. Really helpful to know the full scope of repairs you needed. Just curious, do you remember roughly what the total repair cost came out to? Also, have you noticed any other issues pop up since getting it fixed? Always good to know what else to watch out for with these exhaust system problems. My mechanic warned me that EGR valve issues sometimes follow these types of repairs, so been keeping an eye on that too. Though hoping the catalytic converter replacement took care of everything.

Great news, my Chrysler has been running perfectly since getting the repairs done. The Exhaust treatment malfunction warning disappeared right after they replaced the faulty oxygen sensor, and the rough idle is completely gone. Total cost was 375€ for the sensor replacement, which was actually less than expected given how severe the symptoms were. The exhaust pipe and catalytic converter both checked out fine during inspection, so I got lucky there. Unlike yours, my issue was isolated to just the oxygen sensor. After 3 months of driving, no additional problems have shown up, no EGR valve issues or any other exhaust-related warnings. The particulate filter was also inspected during the repair and showed normal readings, so that was reassuring. Just make sure your shop does a complete diagnostic check of the exhaust system components while they have it up on the lift. This helps catch any developing issues before they become major problems.

I took my Chrysler to the mechanic last week after getting advice here. The diagnosis matched what others experienced, bad oxygen sensor triggering the engine light and causing that rough idle. The exhaust smell was coming from a cracked pipe section near the catalytic converter. Final repairs came to 850€ total: New oxygen sensor, Exhaust pipe section replacement, Labor costs for testing and installation The NOx sensors were also tested but working fine. Everything is running smooth now, no more exhaust smell in the cabin and the engine light is off. Idle is back to normal too. The mechanic did a thorough job checking all exhaust components while it was in the shop. Really glad I got this fixed before it caused more engine problems. The diagnostic testing caught things my previous mechanic missed. Appreciate everyone who shared their similar experiences, helped me know what to expect during the repair process.