Today my wife drove her 2002 PT Cruiser (PTC) with 14K miles into a marina parking lot. While doing a low-speed U-turn, a bolt in the power steering rack area came loose, causing power steering fluid to spray onto the catalytic converter, which instantly started a fire. A boat mechanic instantly spotted the fire and came running with a big dry chemical fire extinguisher. He was able to quickly extinguish the fire. They pushed the PTC back into a parking spot and noticed a large amount of red fluid on the asphalt. Further checking revealed the power steering fluid canister was void of fluid. The PTC was towed to a local Chrysler dealership, where my Insurance Rep was waiting. 3.5 hours later the leak was fixed and existing fuel pump warranty work was completed. No other damage was detected, primarily due to one fast-acting good Samaritan. Yes, we put kitty litter down to soak up the fluid.
Someone please tell me I am not going to have to complete an extensive pre-drive inspection prior to daily driving. Aren't catalytic converters supposed to be adequately shielded to prevent such fires? Seems dangerous to have the front of the converter poking into the engine bay area anyway. Me, nor my friends have ever heard of this type problem on any car. Anyone else experience this? My wife is still freaked out.
Can't say enough good things about my new friend with the fire extinguisher. I had to beg him to take some cash.