hi, I just purchased a 2000 e320 and when I am stoped or ideling there is a ratteling noise comming from under the car, I got under the car and with a rag shook the exaust pipe and the ratteling hesitates. I am guessing it's the catteler converter. Did anyone experience this before and if so, what was done. Thanks Anthony P.S. spelling not great sorry

 

you are probbably right. that is very common on that vehicle. you have to determine which side, left or right. is rattleing and then replace the cats on that side. the ones that rattle are usually the rear ones. if u have a stethescope, put the end on each cat then tap the cat with a rubber mallet u should be able to detemin which one it is. front and back cats come with the same replacement pipe so all u need to figure out is left side or right. good luck

 

hi rmf thanks for your help, by any chance do you know how much a cat would cost?

 

Yep! Had the same problem with my Jeep several years ago. It was the converter. It would rattle and was very annoying. The dealer wanted to charge me $1,100+ for a new one since the vehicle was out of warranty. I had to point out to them in the owner's manual the Federal emissions warranty exceeded the vehicle's warranty and it was a free replacement. The Service Manager was unaware of this fact. He took my owner's manual inside one of the offices and consulted with two other employees. He came back after a few minutes and offered me a new converter without charge.

 

Hi,

Cats usually rattle when cold and at idle.
Before considering that it is the cat (this is a VERY common problem) ensure that the exhaust heat shields aren't rattling.
It is usually the rear cat (alongside the gearbox) that gives this problem.

If it should be the front cat get it fixed quickly before you need a new engine!!

You seem to have determined that it is the cat that is rattling.
A good cross check is to see if you can get it to rattle with engine off by thumping it vertically with your fist (ensure you have protection incase it is HOT).

Unfortunately I am not aware of anybody selling cats other than MB. They are quite expensive costing several hundred pound sterling.

Stuart