How do you test a catalytic converter with a scan tool?

How do you test a catalytic converter with a scan tool?

How To Use A Scan Tool To Check Your Catalytic Converter

1. Step 1: Take the connector for the scan tool and plug it into the OBDII port which should found on the left-hand side of the steering wheel.
2. Step 2: Turn on the vehicle and left it run for 10-15 minutes to increase the temperature.

Can an exhaust leak cause a P0420?

An exhaust leak can definately cause P0420. It’s letting extra oxygen into the exhaust stream. There are pressure pulses AND suction pulses that suck air in through that leak.

What does error code P0420 mean?

catalytic converter
Code P0420 indicates that the catalytic converter is not functioning efficiently, therefore increasing the output of harmful pollutants by the vehicle.

Where does the P0420 trouble code come from?

P0420 is triggered in the engine control module when there is a problem with the efficiency of the catalytic converter. The engine control unit uses two O2 sensors, one in the front of and one behind the catalytic converter to measure the efficiency of the catalytic converter.

What causes the P0420 oxygen sensor to read lean?

If the upstream and downstream oxygens sensors are both switching from rich to lean, that’s the sign of a dead catalytic converter. An exhaust system leak really screws up the P0420 testing routing. An exhaust leak near the upstream sensor can cause the downstream sensor to read a steady lean condition.

How does a P0420 readiness monitor test work?

During a P0420 readiness monitor test, the ECM will purposely and rapidly command a very rich and very lean mixture to force the downstream sensor to read the excess fuel or oxygen. Then it will stop the excessive air/fuel and watch the downstream sensor again, looking for a steady reading.

What does it mean when your catalytic converter says p04020?

In most cases, the failing catalytic converter is not dangerous and poses no risk to the occupants of the car. The real risk is that serious damage to the catalytic converter may occur unless the P04020 code is resolved quickly.