2002 Toyota Camry PO420

Tiny
THE GIANT
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 TOYOTA CAMRY
  • 4 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 200,000 MILES
Hi my name is henry. Ok ive changed the cat converter about 2 years ago bought brand new from dealer. About 60,000 miles on cat. And the po420 pops up. What should I do and what should I check for? Thanks henry
Monday, October 26th, 2009 AT 5:31 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
RASMATAZ
  • MECHANIC
  • 75,992 POSTS
A code P0420 may mean that one or more of the following has happened:

Leaded fuel was used where unleaded was called for
An oxygen sensor is not reading (functioning) properly
The engine coolant temperature sensor is not working properly
Damaged or leaking exhaust manifold / catalytic converter / exhaust pipe
Retarded spark timing
The oxygen sensors in front and behind the converter are reporting too similar of readings

Check for exhaust leaks at the manifold, pipes, catalytic converter. Repair as required.
Use a scope to diagnose the oxygen sensor operation (Tip: The oxygen sensor in front of the catalytic converter normally has a fluctuating waveform. The waveform of the sensor behind the converter should be more steady).
Inspect the downstream heated oxygen sensor (HO2), replace if necessary
Replace the catalytic converter
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Monday, October 26th, 2009 AT 5:44 PM

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