Can you drive with a code P0420?
Yeah driving on a p0420 won’t hurt anything. Your gas milage might be slightly affected by the computer. But no actual damage will occur.
What does the OBD-II P0420 error code mean?
The definition of the OBD-II P0420 code is “Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)”. When the ECU stores this code, it means that the catalytic converter is not operating at maximum efficiency and may need replacement.
What happens if P0420 is left unresolved?
If left unresolved, this code has the potential to cause serious, if not fatal damage to the catalytic converter, which in turn, could set the vehicle on fire. Ideally, the vehicle should not be driven until code P0420 had been resolved.
What does P0420 mean on a catalytic converter?
P0420 means that the efficiency of the catalytic converter is below the threshold. The ECM uses two O2 sensors, one in the front and one in the back of the catalytic converter to measure the efficiency. If the efficiency is low, the P0420 code will be triggered.
Why does my Toyota Corolla have a P0420 trouble code?
The most common cause when you find the P0420 on the Toyota Corolla is a bad catalytic converter. But, this can often be caused by oil going through the piston rings to get stuck on the catalytic converter if you have a Toyota Corolla that is struggling with the trouble code.
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 does it mean if your OBD code is p04020?
It is important that the front and rear o2 sensors pass the Mode 6 tests. If they fail, false readings could potentially confuse the OBD-II software and trigger a false P04020 code. In most cases, the failing catalytic converter is not dangerous and poses no risk to the occupants of the car.
What causes a P0420 to read a steady lean condition?
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. The ECM would interpret that as a bad catalytic converter.
How to fix a leak in a Chrysler P0420?
Examine the exhaust system for damage and leaks. Pay close attention to the exhaust manifold, gaskets, and exhaust pipes pre-catalytic converter. If any leaks are found, repair the leak, clear the code, and complete several drive cycles to verify that was the fix.