When i drive, my 2004 santa fee seems to hold back and the rpms race when driving. firestone said it was cataliyc converter, told me $2300 to replace.

The problem is the transmission not engine

Depending upon how long it's been since your last tuneup (they do need tuneups at 100,000 miles, you might need new plugs and points. My 2004 had the exact same problem and it was completely resolved by changing plugs and points.

I have the same problem with my 2012 Dodge Journey. Apparently it's to do with the software in the computer. Not sure if that holds true for your Dakota or not.

you should have your fuel pump pressure tested. your pump may not be holding pressure and loses power while driving also when its parked the fuel may be leaking back into the tank. whoever told you your cats were bad got you for some money.

This is usually caused by failure of the accelerator pedal position sensor, but can also be caused by the throttle control motor. I would test the sensor first. If it fails, replace it. If it passes, che k the wiring and connectors for continuity to the pcm and throttle. If wiring is good, replace the throttle controller.

could the engine tick over be to fast? or maybe there is a leak in the vacume pipe,,,

Vacuum leak or bad IAC or Map sensor.

Hi Tammy

Two things to check are the throttle position sensor for a fault and the exhaust system for a restriction. The cat. converters are known to collapse inside causing this restriction and back pressure. Your complete exhaust system will have to be inspected.

Is the check engine light on? If so it may be the idle air control motor that needs to be cleaned or replaced.

I had the exact same problem on my 04 GC. I put some Techron Concentrate Plus Fuel System Cleaner in from Wal-Mart and it seemed to fix the problems right away. Let me know.