Check engine light–Bank1 Catalytic Converter code
I just had my truck pass inspection on December 29th. Two days ago the check engine came on. The code indicates catalytic converter. Can there be anything else going on. Considering that it did just pass inspection?
My car has 120000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
Hi There,
Your vehicle may have passed the emissions test just before encountering issues with the catalytic converter. The other possibility you may want to check might be the Oxygen sensors which monitor the exhaust gases going into and coming out of the catalytic converter. As you may know the [oxygen sensors]((https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oxygen-sensor-replacement) which are part of your emissions system read exhaust gases to determine whether or not the appropriate amount of oxygen is present in the exhaust. Based upon this reading, this information is relayed to the car’s ECU which then makes a determination as to whether or not to add more or less fuel to the engine. When too much or too little oxygen is present, this will cause check engine light to come on. Too much oxygen may be present in the exhaust gas due to things like an exhaust leak, a vacuum leak, a faulty mass air flow sensor (causing a lean fuel condition) or faulty fuel injectors. Too little oxygen may be present in the exhaust gas may be caused by things like a clogged air filter, a failing mass air flow sensor (causing too much fuel to be introduced to the motor), bad fuel injectors or a clogged catalytic converter. When the O2 sensor is not working properly, this will cause false readings to be relayed to the computer causing inaccurate adjustments to be made to the intake and fuel system in your engine. I would suggest having an expert from Your Mechanic come to your home to diagnose your emissions system.
Your vehicle may have passed the emissions test just before encountering issues with the catalytic converter. The other possibility you may want to check might be the Oxygen sensors which monitor the exhaust gases going into and coming out of the catalytic converter. As you may know the [oxygen sensors]((https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oxygen-sensor-replacement) which are part of your emissions system read exhaust gases to determine whether or not the appropriate amount of oxygen is present in the exhaust. Based upon this reading, this information is relayed to the car’s ECU which then makes a determination as to whether or not to add more or less fuel to the engine. When too much or too little oxygen is present, this will cause check engine light to come on. Too much oxygen may be present in the exhaust gas due to things like an exhaust leak, a vacuum leak, a faulty mass air flow sensor (causing a lean fuel condition) or faulty fuel injectors. Too little oxygen may be present in the exhaust gas may be caused by things like a clogged air filter, a failing mass air flow sensor (causing too much fuel to be introduced to the motor), bad fuel injectors or a clogged catalytic converter. When the O2 sensor is not working properly, this will cause false readings to be relayed to the computer causing inaccurate adjustments to be made to the intake and fuel system in your engine. I would suggest having an expert from Your Mechanic come to your home to diagnose your emissions system.
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Code P0420 indicates that the catalytic converter is not functioning efficiently, therefore increasing the output of harmful pollutants by the vehicle.
A common emissions code seen in the field, a P0420 trouble code indicates that the catalytic converter isn`t functioning efficiently. To work at peak efficiency, the emissions or feed gases entering the catalytic converter need to be perfectly balanced and not excessively elevated.
Code P0420 indicates that the catalytic converter is not functioning efficiently, therefore increasing the output of harmful pollutants by the vehicle.
A P0420 code indicates that your vehicle`s computer (PCM) has detected a problem with the catalytic converter. The catalytic converter`s function is to break down dangerous pollutants produced during the combustion cycle, lowering emissions released through the exhaust pipe.
OBD2 Diagnostic Trouble Code P0420 means that the sensor in the catalytic converter located in bank 1 has detected the catalytic converter`s efficiency below the threshold. A catalytic converter`s job is to burn up the remaining raw fuel after the combustion process and to eliminate or reduce harmful emissions.
A P0420 code is set when the upstream sensor and the downstream oxygen sensor sense the catalytic converter is not doing its job. Basically, the amount of oxygen going into the converter is not being burned, and it detects it through the downstream sensor.
Can I Drive With P0420? Yes, it is usually alright to continue driving in the short term with P0420. It does not pose a risk to the driver. Driving long term with this code can damage your engine and exhaust system.
Because there are no driveability symptoms associated with the P0420 trouble code, it is not considered serious or dangerous to the driver. However, if the code is not addressed in a timely manner, the catalytic converter could be seriously damaged.
The p0420 code means that the catalytic converter is below threshold and is not functioning correctly. This code comes up when the catalytic converter can no longer burn off any fuel in the exhaust system.
HS Code 84213200 – Catalytic, converters, particulate.
OBD2 Diagnostic Trouble Code P0420 means that the sensor in the catalytic converter located in bank 1 has detected the catalytic converter`s efficiency below the threshold. A catalytic converter`s job is to burn up the remaining raw fuel after the combustion process and to eliminate or reduce harmful emissions.
A code P0420 or P0430 means a catalytic converter isn`t performing as efficiently as it should. When this happens, it`s not able to break down all those harmful pollutants, and still releases them. In the video above, our mechanic shows us two catalytic converters—one that`s clogged, and one that isn`t.
OBD2 Diagnostic Trouble Code P0420 means that the sensor in the catalytic converter located in bank 1 has detected the catalytic converter`s efficiency below the threshold. A catalytic converter`s job is to burn up the remaining raw fuel after the combustion process and to eliminate or reduce harmful emissions.
A code P0420 or P0430 means a catalytic converter isn`t performing as efficiently as it should. When this happens, it`s not able to break down all those harmful pollutants, and still releases them. In the video above, our mechanic shows us two catalytic converters—one that`s clogged, and one that isn`t.
A P0430 code indicates a Bank 2 catalytic converter issue. This code indicates that the downstream oxygen sensor (placed after the catalytic converter) detects inefficient operation. This code occurs when the catalytic converter fails to reduce exhaust gas pollutants to the specified limits.
Relevant Questions and Answers :
the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue
Problems accelerating, check engine light on, possibly bad catalytic converter? You
ANSWER : Hi there:
It’s very difficult to tell you for certain that a bad catalytic converter is causing this, since we’re not there to inspect the vehicle personally; however, it is a distinct possibility. The catalytic converter is a metal canister that is installed in the exhaust system. It is filled with a chemical catalyst, usually a platinum and palladium mixture, and helps to convert the vehicle’s emissions into non-harmful gasses. Usually a faulty catalytic converter will produce a few symptoms that can alert the driver that service may be required, which you’ve listed above. The best thing to do is have a professional mobile mechanic start with completing a check engine light inspection so they can pinpoint the source of those error codes and determine if the catalytic converter needs to be replaced.
Read Full Q/A … : Check engine light–Bank1 Catalytic Converter code
Check Engine light on. Would the computer give all error codes in one shot? How do we know the engine’s condition?
ANSWER : Hi there. From the description you have provided, I’m am inclined to agree with your assessment of a used engine being installed in your vehicle. An inspection of the engine, by a qualified technician could determine whether the engine is sound. The Check Engine Light on and having a TPS (throttle position sensor) code does not necessarily mean the sensor is at fault. Circuit tests should be performed to confirm the fault. The likelihood of the ECM (electronic control module/computer) giving you all the codes at once is remote. Other component failures could occur. Address those as they come up. Even though you already made the purchase, I recommend having your vehicle inspected by a certified technician so that you can get a thorough evaluation of the car’s true condition.
Read Full Q/A … : Check engine light–Bank1 Catalytic Converter code
2004 Nissan Altima- Won’t move when the code reads p0420 on the scanner. Did my transmission go? Is it my catalytic converter like code said?
ANSWER : Hi there. The code P0420 means that the catalytic converter is below threshold and cannot burn off any emissions in the exhaust stream. The O2 sensors have pickup this fault and put the engine into limp mode. As for the vehicle not moving, the exhaust may be plugged up causing the engine to not breathe properly. Put the vehicle in drive and set the parking brake. Fully step on the gas pedal to the floor and have someone feel the exhaust pipe. If there is very little pressure coming out of the pipe, then the catalytic converter has plugged up and needs replaced. If the pressure is normal, then the computer may have locked the transmission out of the drive cycle. If you need further assistance with your vehicle not moving due to the code p0420, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.
Read Full Q/A … : Check engine light–Bank1 Catalytic Converter code
p0011 code,check engine light one, changed bank 1 vvt solenoid and check engine light still on?
ANSWER : The P0011 code is typically caused by oil issues with the car. I would particularly make sure the engine oil level is not low. The VVT solenoid relies on proper oil levels to do their job. If they don’t have enough oil, they won’t work. You can have a mobile technician from YourMechanic visit your home or office to inspect the Check Engine Light for you. If you follow through with a repair with us you will be reimbursed for the cost of inspection.
Read Full Q/A … : Check engine light–Bank1 Catalytic Converter code
P2196 OBD-II Trouble Code. came and went in 24 hours. 4 starts.
ANSWER : If the mechanic tested the output (functioning) of the oxygen sensor, especially according to the protocol at this link and found that the sensor was non functioning at that time, what you might be experiencing is a "failing" oxygen sensor and so the latest instance of Code P2196 might be explained by that. A complexity though is Code P2196 has many causes other than a failing oxygen sensor including: a faulty fuel pressure regulator; MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor; ECT(Engine Coolant Temperature) sensor or damaged ECT wiring; leaking or stuck open fuel injector or injectors; and spark plugs and/or coil pack. Basically, if the Code (P2196) recurs, the oxygen sensor output can be re-tested but the mechanic will hopefully be aware of all these other possible causes of that Code setting. If the Code recurs, you can request a check engine light diagnostic and a certified Mechanic, dispatched by YourMechanic right to your location, will get this resolved for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.
Read Full Q/A … : Check engine light–Bank1 Catalytic Converter code
check engine light O2 sensor already replaced same codes still popping up after replacing old O2 sensor
ANSWER : Hi there. What you received from the parts store was a code retrieval, not a diagnostic. The codes are set when a fault is detected against normal operating parameter. The computer does not know what caused the fault, only that the fault meets the criteria for this code to set. There could be a problem in the wire harness, converter, or the ECM. The code and data are needed to properly assess the direction that a diagnosis needs. I strongly suggest having a qualified technician perform an inspection to avoid replacing unnecessary parts. Your Mechanic has several available technicians that can assist you with a check engine light inspection.
Read Full Q/A … : Check engine light–Bank1 Catalytic Converter code
Service engine warning, MAF code and O2 sensor code, along with check suspension light are turned on
ANSWER : Hello, it sounds like you have quite a few things going on. I am going to do my best to break them down for you.
First if the engine is very loud when idling and the belt has already been replaced, there may be an issue with the tensioner or idler pulley.
Next, the Navigator is known for needing service to the air suspension system as it gets up in miles, the most common causes of these are the air struts themselves have failed, or one of the air lines has a leak.
Lastly, if the O2 sensor and MAF are continually coming back after the sensors have been replaced, the most common cause would be either an exhaust leak or a vacuum leak.
Qualified technicians such as the ones at YourMechanic will be able to diagnose these issues and recommend the best path to repair, starting with a diagnosis of your warning lights.
Read Full Q/A … : Check engine light–Bank1 Catalytic Converter code
Changed catalytic converter, no lights on dashboard, but codes for catalytic converter & O2 sensor still remain
ANSWER : Hi there, thanks for writing in. I am not sure why you changed your catalytic converter. Assuming you had a P0420 code, replacing the catalytic converter should of resolved that code. The codes originally stored need to be cleared. The fact your check engine light remains off tells me, you may have fixed the problem. Try disconnecting the negative battery terminal for at least 2 minutes, reconnect. Start and drive the vehicle for 10-15 miles. Re-check for codes. If a code returns on the first drive cycle (pending code), a problem still exists. The check engine light should come back on (the next drive cycle) if, the fault is recognized by the computer. An exhaust leak before the oxygen sensor will cause O2 sensor and catalytic converter codes. If you are having trouble identifying the fault, consider having an expert automotive technician from YourMechanic come to your home or office to inspect and diagnose this issue for you, and make or suggest any repairs as needed.
Read Full Q/A … : Check engine light–Bank1 Catalytic Converter code
