MILlight code P1420

JAMBODAN

MEMBER
HONDA CIVIC

2003 Civic HX 60 miles, only 1 engine option I think.

Over the past 6 months this code P1420 has been coming on. About three times now. I cleared it the first two time and then decided to take it in after reading that it might me the Catalytic Converter which is covered by the extended power train warranty or something like that.

Honda said it was a software/computer malfunction and they reprogrammed my PCM (that's the onboard computer where the MIL codes are stored right?)

What exactly does reprogramming entail? They charged my $92.00 and I am feeling rather ripped off. If it was just resetting the code that they did well. I can do that for free at AutoZone.

how much time/effort does the reprogramming take. Did I get ripped off because if I did I am going to go complain. I am recently graduated and don't have that kind of money throw away.

Also, how can I check the Cat. And/or O2 sensors (from my research that seems to be the likely problem) Any other possible causes I can look into would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Jambodan

2 Replies

BRUCE HUNT

MECHANIC
3,753 POSTS

I am going to email you a technical service bulletin covering this.

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Friday, July 27th, 2007 AT 7:41 AM

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

Good afternoon,

No, it is more than clearing a code. Clearing does nothing for the code since it is an issue and must be addressed.

Reprogramming is where they use an advanced scan tool and install updated software from the Honda web site. It takes about an hour from start to finish.

As far as the catalytic converter, you need an advanced scan tool to monitor the voltage of the upstream O2 voltage and the downstream O2 voltage. When they act the same, the catalytic converter is bad. the downstream should be a constant voltage and a varying voltage.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-a-catalytic-converter

Roy