What is cat P0420?

What is cat P0420?

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

Is it safe to drive with a P0420 code?

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.

Can a loose gas cap cause a p0420 code?

P0420 is a catalyst efficiency code, it has nothing to do with your gas cap. At 175K it’s very likely that the catalytic converter is shot. Take it do someone who can diagnose it. Or start throwing money into a fire and see if that fixes it.

What does P0420 mean on a Subaru Outback?

P0420 SUBARU Tech Notes. As the code description implies the P0420 code means that the vehicle’s control module has detected that the three-way catalytic converter is not working properly (is not as efficient as the factory is expecting).

Is the P0420 code a bad cat?

0420 is cat efficiency code which usually means bad cat. Cats and emission issues are common for all cars and factory recalls to fix issues is also common. But, there is usually a mileage limit. 8yrs and 100k miles usually pushes you beyond the warranty assistance. Actually, P0420 is frequently caused by a faulty O2 sensor, not a bad cat.

What does the OBDII code mean on a Subaru Outback?

Subaru Outback P0420 OBDII Code Defined. P0420 is a OBDII trouble code. The code technically stands for: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold. Your Outback has at least two oxygen sensors, one before and after the catalytic converter.

What causes a service engine light on a Subaru Outback?

Service Engine Light – Often, this is the only symptom of the Subaru Outback P0420 code. There are many things that can cause the P0420 trouble code in your Outback. Here are the most common ones. Oxygen Sensor – The P0420 codes is thrown when the oxygen sensors on both sides of the exhaust have very similar readings.