981 · Exhaust

P0420

Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)

MED SEVERITY

The Bank 1 catalytic converter is no longer converting efficiently (the rear O2 trace mirrors the front).

SYMPTOMS

  • Check-engine light
  • Possible mild economy loss
  • Failed emissions
  • Often no drivability change

LIKELY CAUSES

  • Aged or failed catalyst
  • Exhaust leak
  • Faulty downstream O2 sensor
  • Upstream misfire/oil contamination that killed the cat

DIAGNOSIS STEPS

  • Confirm there are no misfire or lean codes first
  • Compare front vs rear O2 traces
  • Inspect for exhaust leaks
  • Test or replace the catalyst

RELATED PARTS

  • Catalytic converter
  • O2 sensors
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