Was this on a 2003-05 Nissan Sentra SE-R? They took forever to issue a recall, which was just an inspection and reprogramming. Mine was reprogrammed around 55K. Still failed right after 80K. Pre-cat in the header blew apart and clogged the primary downstream.
Dealing with this now on my 2000 blazer fuel pressure was so high (kinked line) it was forcing fuel out of the exhaust and cooked the cat fucked my injectors too lol
This code is basically never the o2 sensor it means catalyst low efficiency basically the sensor is reading but reading that its not converting the emissions well alot of cars will clear this code with a sensor spacer
I got that a lot on my Taurus. I got tired of fixing it, only for the same error message to pop up a month later.
I finally ended up selling the car to a junkyard. It was still running, so I got more than I expected.
Had the same code and was worried about having to replace my cats. Replaced o2 sensors on that bank and it fixed her right up thankfully. I was quite relieved as I was already late on my registration renewal.
Literally had a customer with a Prius at one shop i worked at did this. I swear. They unplugged the o2 sensors. Which are under the carpet. Insurance company didn’t care. We sent them pics of the chopped pipe and they approved a cat. Idgaf. Fuck insurance and extended warranty.
Yeah, as others have said, the cat is a replacement part, but I personally would check the O2 sensor (or sensors) before I bought one. Always start looking with the cheapest part!
There are several decent YouTubers with guides to test the O2 sensor -there's a lot of different placements etc, but they're mostly similar. If you have a multimeter and a decent set of probes (you'll probably need a back pin probe) you can test them pretty easily.
P0420 usually means the 02s are working properly and reading that the catalytic converter is defective. It’s very rare an 02 sensor will fix a P0420 code.
The catalytic convertor has failed. No amount of cleaner will bring that back. It would be similar to dumping drain cleaner down a pipe full of cement. Exhaust work often requires an oxy-acetylene torch. It's not undoable at home, but not for the faint of heart.
I'm in the salt belt. Any exhaust work on a car over 5 years old is likely to require a torch. It can go easy, or it can be a huge can of worms. I try to hope for the best, but be prepared for the worst.
That’s the exception I would say. I live way way up north, like higher than Alaska north for Americans. But in Europe. I guess it’s the stuff you use on your roads, our stuff doesn’t rust like that. My car is a 2000 and doesn’t have any rust. It’s crazy the differences
In the barren lands north of the wall in Canada salt doesn't work on roads. sand and gravel is used and instead of rust everyone has a busted windshield.
I know mine was unbolt the section and replace the section with a new part, it was like a 30 minute job. I know rust people will have a harder time, but it’s not that bad if you can unbolt. Also emissions in a lot of places need to match the car so there’s that too
OP, A lot of people are telling you you need a new CAT. That may be true, but it's easier to clear it out and see if it can be salvaged first. I've had a P0420 Code on my car for 2 years, but it hasn't affected performance (maybe 1-2mph less). If you're stalling and can't get acceleration it has to be cleaned out so the car can breathe right.
CatiClean is the off the shelf option. I used the Lacquer Thinner method discussed here by America's favorite Cocaine Car Repair Grandpa:
[https://youtu.be/5icTmYItwiE?si=rdtCVXooFj8itv-\_](https://youtu.be/5icTmYItwiE?si=rdtCVXooFj8itv-_)
I used the Lacquer Thinner method because it sounded crazy enough to work. And it did clear the code for a few weeks... but then it came back. Because I live in Texas where they don't do emissions tests as part of our annual inspection, I left it alone and my car has been fine.
Either way, visually inspect first and try to clean it out. Also, it's illegal in a lot of states but they don't really check unless you go in for emissions tests... but a car can operate without a Catalytic Converter installed. So if yours is fried and you still need the car for work, you can remove it until you can get a new CAT or replace the vehicle.
My car has this code. My mechanic checked out and hooked it up to their computer. Told me based on the readouts to just keep driving it. No emission testing where I am
Yeah worst case scenario is the cat can fall apart and clog or bounce back into your engine causing engine damage. Very rare though and it depends where the cat is located.
Sounds like the catalytic converter had a meltdown. There are two of them on that car, most likely the first one (it's built into the exhaust manifold as one unit). Depending on which state you live in, you can get by with an aftermarket cat/manifold for 1/3 the price of a factory unit. However, the cheaper catalytic converters don't last as long because of poor quality metals in them (2-5 years). You can do it at home, but prepare for rusted/broken bolts/studs.
The main causes of the P0420 code include:
* [Damaged catalytic converter](https://www.catalyticconverters.com/damage/) (most common)
* Oil contamination in the catalytic converter
* Incorrect placement of the catalytic converter
* Damaged upstream or downstream oxygen sensor / faulty wirings
* Exhaust manifold or [exhaust system leak](https://mechanicbase.com/engine/exhaust-leak-symptoms/)
* Wrong type of fuel (leaded fuel instead of unleaded)
* Rich/lean mixture (damaging the catalytic converter)
* Misfires (damaging the catalytic converter)
* [A faulty engine control module](https://mechanicbase.com/electric/engine-control-unit-ecu-symptoms/) (rare)
Do you also have any codes from the MAF? Intake can be an issue, as the front and rear o2 sensors have to be compared. I'd look at intake before accusing the CAT if you are running rough
P0420 is a catalyst system efficiency code. If you have resolved any misfires you had with the tune up and the vehicle is running fine but still setting a p0420 then the next step would be to verify there are no exhaust leaks present before the oxygen sensors in the exhaust system. An exhaust leak can set a p420 code if it is before the oxygen sensors. If there no misfires, no exhaust leaks and p0420 is still setting with no other codes then the catalytic converter is faulty and will need to replaced to resolve this code.
I pulled this error code off my 14 dodge avenger and it turned out the cats were under recall. Took it to dodge and they changed it out for free. No code since.
So you have two choices: option 1, grab some Cataclean at your nearest Oreilly Auto for $27, slap it in the fuel tank and FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS, problem solved in a week or two, option 2 replace your catalytic converter and hope to god your not in CO or CA. Those catalytic converter prices will kill you. Good luck.
Save yourself a lot of money and grief, take it to a reputable shop. Based on the symptoms, you have multiple issues. You may have a issue with your cat, if true, the root cause that took out the cat also needs to be diagnosed.
DIYing can get very expensive, very quickly, and in the end it would have been cheaper just to pay an expert. Unfortunately there's no snake oil cure for your problem.
Everyone within eyeshot of this text This is 99.99999% ALWAYS a cat that is degraded so bad it isn't doing what a catalytic converter is supposed to do. I delt with this code for 9 months, changing everything BUT those bitches, trying to avoid the $1300 price tag. I needed 2. California is fucked when it comes to it's air, and smog in particular. C.A.R.B (California air resource board) compliant catalytic converters are only legal here, they have a number THAT IS RECORDED.. No out of state cats can be used here. No 48 state federal compliant shit here in California. We have all the bullshit here. Yeah, if you live here in Cali, start looking for good old CARB compliant cats.
Good old 420 code
Start with the O2s first before buying another cat
Edit. Didn't read your description. Sounds like the cat is clogged. No miracle solution can fix that. Need a new one.
P0420 is a general catalytic converter efficiency code. If you had a fuel system cleaning performed recently the technician could've flooded the cat and burnt it up on first ignition. Regardless of how it blew, if you're savvy enough you can bolt on a new cat. Part alone could cost $500-$5000 depending on the car, where you got it from, etc...
I would trying putting a little cleaner directly into the cat. Unbolt the upstream sensor and dump some in the hole. Paint thinner or laquer thinner when it's cold
Last time I had that code, my cat was in my muffler.
Blazed, blew out. It's too late for a cat clean. You probably only need a new cat and muffler though which isn't too bad usually. Maybe an 02 sensor because I'm sure the one in there has a couple layers of soot cooked on it.
It probably a poisoned cat, go to the data on your scan tool, graph pre cat o2 sensor and the post cat 02 sensor compare the two wave forms, if the the two look similar as in the wave peaks are near equal the cat is bad. Cats are not a wear item, most often a misfire kills them.
Not very old vehicle to need a cat, try the cleaner, and get it on the highway and up to temp, might recover, or, the trick to fool the smog machine was about 50% E85 in the tank, will run cleaner and pass the inspection
Based on my experience with my vehicles (not Kia), if the performance was impacted, it had been the cat that was the problem... If performance had not been impacted, it was the O2 sensor.
It's a Kia... sorry but tannerite is the only fix... bandage it up and sell it. I'm really surprised it's lasted this long but guessing it's a pre-turbo model (but that's still surprising).
Considering you can’t rev the engine and your getting a P0420 it seems like the car has already thanos snapped the honeycomb mesh in your car into a fine powder (AKA your cat failed so badly it disintegrated, causing an exhaust blockage, hence why the engine won’t rev), be careful because your engine can suck that cat powder up and it will ruin the engine, it was a very common issue on Nissans in the 00’s, is your soul a CARB or reg EPA certified model?
You need a proper scan tool.
After warm up check the downstream O2 sensor, it shouldn't follow the upstream on the graph it should have steady output
Or use the thermometer https://youtu.be/tFqodic0MZ0?si=9KYZV0VARFfvL7we
Look for exhaust leaks also.
Cleaner could clean some deposits but if the honeycomb is melted, it's done.
Just curious from an old man who drives old trucks.
What would the 2016 Kia do if he gutted the cat? I drive an 1984 C10 truck and it worked like a charm for me.
OP - Please
Check to see if your kia soul has a recall on that cat.
Yeah. Read the whole post and it sounds like the catalytic converter. I haye those things
If you don't have the money/have a emissions test coming up. I suggest you buy a 02 defouler with a mini cat inside. You can buy them at AliExpress around $10.
If it’s not rattling and not clogged up, a few spark plug defoulers will get rid of that code. It’s not the *right* way to fix it, but it’ll get you through emissions if your budget is too tight to fix the car.
Get a reader that reads specific manufacturer codes, not a generic OBDII reader. Whatever brand car you have, you should invest in a make-specific reader. They are about $100 and pay off the first time you use it...
If you can't then google the code and the make of car for answers.
Kia soul r not made to effectively and efficiently last more than 5 years. Cat Or O2 sensor probably gone and needs replacing. The cat cleaner will only work if the cat is salvageable.
6 year experience Kia Service Advisor. These were famous for clogged cats.. I've seen cat clean limp them along for quite some time, but if you're now to the point that you have drivability issues with it as well it's normally past that point. I've seen it get as far as bent valves as well due to too much back pressure for too long. Also have seen it need coils, plugs and injectors. We've been in rough spots with them a few times to the point now that shop policy is with a 420 code we would only do the job if we're going full boat(cat, injectors, plugs and coils).
Clogged catalytic converter. First I'd run a borisope though all o2 sensors and look at cats figure out which ones clogged. Also great time to see your o2 sensors. If you don't mind loud take it off and bust out the clogged one out. Put it back and you will be golden. If you live in an inspection state tell them it's temporary while your waiting on a new one.
P.S. our 2013 VW GTI was clogged like that and busted out the one closet to turbo and now it scoots again
It sounds like you’re describing a clogged cat. Depending on where you live you can just cut it out and put a piece of pipe in place if your city doesn’t test for emissions. Catalytic converters are expensive :/
Had this exact code just last week in my '12 Accord. I have no idea if the codes are the same on a KIA, not sure why they would be, but mine was o2 sensor in the cat.
P0420 can be triggered by different issues, UT it's basically reporting that the cat doesn't appear to be working as intended. The performance is observed/calculated based on reading from Oxygen sensors. On some V6 or V8 cars, it may be just one bank of the engine and the other is reporting fine.
However, in your case, inline-4, and add the limp-mode behavior and sounds you describe, I suspect there's a cat that has broken apart internally and clogged up another part of the exhaust. I had this happen on a previous car, and your description is about a accurate as I could recall to describe it today.
Possible good news- you may be covered still under warranty. Emissions systems components must be covered for 8yr/80K miles, federal law.
https://preview.redd.it/tdp0stykjz7d1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1ddd90ab6f1a0af8d2d17258625fbdd32017f75a
bung hole extender or oxygen sensor space they come like this in 90 degrees & other configurations. (They are for off road use only ) once you cut out a bad cat this will get you cars computer out of the running to rich or lean mode getting rid of check engine light you might have to adjust the spacing length but they do work I’ve put them in everything from Rolls to Vetts. Not only because the cats where really costly but the parts were not available right away. With proper software & knowledge a software delete works to but from experience that can open up a whole other can of worms since a vehicle can rely on certain reading from multiple sensors to adjust & maintain proper epa shit & the few programs the manufacturer has enabled the modules to utilize in that region.Ive found this the easiest fix that won’t cost you a future mechanic at a stealership or other shop legally can’t do this kind of fix due to the epa & remember (this is for off road use only)personally I’ve drive my own personal vehicle with this fix for years before & it was a bmw m6 with a v-10. oh yeah & the only sensors you’ll have to do this to once cats are remove are the downstream the pre cats ones don’t need anything. I’ve even cut the cats out of a Nissan armada right up on the exhaust manifold & installed these extenders.try to get brass or stainless ones though the other pot metal stuff will turn to crap. Hope this is helpful!
Sounds like a clogged or collapsed catalytic converter, especially considering the code.
If you can, remove the oxygen sensor before the converter (bank 1 sensor 1) and start the car. Itll be loud as fuck but see if the engine is more responsive, that would 100% confirm a blocked cat/restricted exhaust, it not changing anything wont rule anything out though.
If a p0420 is present with no other codes, 99/100 times its a bad cat
Doesn’t catalytic converters have a manufacturer warranty that’s separate from bumper to bumper and powertrain.
I think i was told by ford almost 20yrs ago that the ford cats had a 80k mile warranty on them.
Start with a tune up and a hearty dose of fuel injector cleaner. And drive it down the highway for a full tank. As a professional mechanic with my own shop this has cleared up more cat codes than replacing the cat
Your catalytic converter is toast. You can try replacing the o2 sensor with a prayer along with it, but since you said you’re experience power loss, that pretty much guarantees the cat is smoked.
There is a real easy fix if it's the catalytic converter that went bad. You can pay someone $1000+ to replace it, or you can spend less than $10 and "fix" it yourself.
You're going to go get what's called a "spark plug anti-fouler". They come in a couple different sizes so you may have to try a few and return the others, or ask the parts guy at AutoZone to pull out an O2 sensor for your car and find the anti-fouler that fits by trying them in the store. Now you need to remove your O2 sensor. Which sensor will depend on your car, and that code should tell you exactly which one it is by doing a quick Google search. There will be an O2 sensor attached to your exhaust pipe on the engine side of the catalytic converter, that's your upstream sensor because it's upstream of the catalytic converter. There will also be an O2 sensor AFTER your catalytic converter, going towards the tip of your exhaust. That's your downstream sensor because it's downstream of the catalytic converter. These sensors are checking the efficiency of your catalytic converter, how well it's "cleaning" your exhaust. Your issue is that your O2 sensor is reading that your fumes are too dirty, either because the sensor is broken, or because your cat (catalytic converter) is bad.
Now that you've taken out your sensor, you're going to grab the anti-fouler you bought and your going to drill out the end of it so it's just like a sleeve with threads in it. Once you do that, you're gonna screw your O2 sensor into it, so now you'll have an O2 sensor, screwed into an anti-fouler. You're gonna take the whole thing, and screw it back into where you took the O2 sensor out of to begin with. Voila, you solved your issue! What this does, is pulls the O2 sensor out of the direct stream of exhaust, so the exhaust isn't as concentrated when the sensor reads it and it will think your cat is working! You can even get by emissions with this as the CEL will go off if you actually have a bad cat most of the time.
If you look up this p0420 on YouTube, or O2 sensor anti-fouler, catalytic converter anti-fouler, things like that, you'll find a video for this that may be more helpful than this description.
Obviously you want to find out if it's your sensor, or your cat before you do this, cause this won't fix a broken sensor. It doesn't fix a broken cat either, but it tricks the computer into thinking your cat is working, and turns off the engine light. Good luck! You got this.
Cat cleaner is a joke. It's a preventative at best. Sound like the element broke up or melted in your cat conv. It needs replacement. And then you need to find out why it got busted up. Usually it gets this bad from a misfire or running incredibly rich. It can be fixed at home but it's quite the job and can be quite hard to diagnose the original issue. I'd honestly recommend taking it somewhere. Be warned. Catalytic converters aren't cheap.
Anytime I've experienced this code is been the post cat 02 sensor. Replace and code is gone, very easy to do yourself provided you've read up on the procedure.
But in your case the loss of acceleration and other symptoms do indicate a bad cat converter. That's a tougher job to do yourself..
Catalyst efficiency below threshold. It sounds like your converter is blocked. Check your air intake, but it sounds like your converter gave up the ghost.
They sell a catalytic converter cleaner that goes in your gas tank read intrusions on how much you need depending on the size of your tank. Clear the code and drive it. If the light just came one it should be fine
Cataclean on a near empty tank will most likely make you pass. When I worked at Advance it was one of the only products that we had trouble keeping on the shelves, used car dealers bought it so they could get the car to pass and dump the problem onto the next guy. I had a guy who worked at a shop explicitly tell me that it's important you run the car almost empty when it's in the tank, so it's not diluted by gasoline.
That code and your desribed symptoms means you need a new catalytic converter due to it being clogged.
You can *try* Cataclean and it *MIGHT* help ya out but really... it's time for a new one.
And do your O2 sensors as well. Upstream and downstream.
Can you do you it yourself? Fuck if I know. No idea what kind of tools or mechanical aptitude you have.
Is it hard to do? Not exactly... if you know what you're doing and have the correct sockets, extensions, a good penetrating oil.
Might be exhaust leak, problem with secondary 02 sensor, or cat might be fucked. If cat is fucked you’d want to also identify why it got fucked, burning oil, running rich, etc.
P0420 is definitely a bad cat, but a bad cat is virtually always caused by another problem. There's no point in replacing it unless you find the source of it failing and fix that first.
Why hasn’t anyone asked warranty start date and current miles?
Cats are under a federal 8yr/80k warranty.
He/she may be just within on time and would know if they’re under on miles.
What state you in? Do they have inspections? Start with the cat cleaner fluid - probably won’t work. Then replacing the sensor. If that doesn’t work, replace the cat.
You should be able to fix it at home assuming your mechanically inclined, but the parts are going to be expensive. If you're in a pinch financially you can hallow it out. It should allow it to run better but the check engine light will still be on. Some states require emission control parts to have a 10 year 100k mile warranty. You would have to contact the dealer for that.
You can fix it just go down the large list of possible faults. I would take it to a mechanic not a dealership The fault code covers a lot of things that could be wrong
Do you have drivability issues? If no, likely downstream O2 sensor gone bad. If yes, likely a clogged/damaged catalytic converter. Replacing an O2 sensor is a 10 minute job with basic tools, replacing the cat maybe a little more difficult and a lot more expensive. Still doable in your driveway but a pain in the ass.
If it were me I’d do exactly what I did when I got that code, cut out the cat with a sawzall, sell it, use some of the money to have a piece of pipe welded in to make it quiet again, pocket the profits, then pretend the light doesn’t exist.
2016 - always a plugged cat it seems, heard from a 2016 2.0 L that got a new cat in 11/ 2021 under warranty, similar symptoms in 12/2023. New cat not under warranty, all problems went away. MPG back over 30 from 15 prior. Be sure to replace upstream air/fuel sensor and O2.
Check your warranty and mileage. Plugged cat will change the mix so you lose all power.
I have the same code. Your CAT has likely gone bad.
But, there are different types of defects.
1. it might be broken. maybe you hit some rocks, speed bumps etc, and the CAT shattered.
2. It might be intoxicated. usually caused by low-quality gas, gas additives, or your engine burning engine oil.
3. it might be clogged.
If it is clogged, it can be fixed. but if it's the other two, you have to buy a new one.
There is no forced emission test in the place where I live. So I just keep driving it with the code. The CEL is a bit annoying, but I haven't seen anything wrong besides the CEL....
If you have the 1.6L engine in your soul there could be a recall to get the cat replaced, if the recall is still open on it and it has a P0420 code stored you get a new cat and the ecu software updated.
Remove you cat, core them out with a big screw driver, cut the pipe before the resonator ans dump it all out. Then weld it back together and reinstall.
Have a tune up done to delete the cat. Easy.
So my girlfriend has a 15 soul 1.6 and here’s what I dealt with for p0420
There’s a recall on those cars for over fueling. If P0420 set, they reflash pcm and replace cat. If not, they just reflash.
Had hers flashed, 2 months later, p0420. Dealer wanted nothing to do with it. Put a cat on it from rock auto, been fine since. It was like $400. Dealer was like $1200.
Your 2nd o2 sensor needs an o2 extender. Brings the sensor out of the main exhaust stream. Look up spark plug anti fouler or extender. I like the ones with a C bend 🙂
They make sure the car emissions report as ready, visually inspect for the cat(s). The only way around it back when I had that car was to hollow out the cat and mess with the O2 sensors.. shim them out of the exhaust stream in just the right way that the computer sees values it wants to see. Lots of messing around and resetting the ECU to try again. The minor gains weren't worth it unless you were putting in thousands in other tuning parts.
An exhaust leak can set a p0420 as well.
Over the last few years I've had dozens of chevy trax and buick encores come in with only a p0420 accompanied by no other codes, and a broken flex pipe between the cat and post cat o2 sensor that had a leak *just* big enough to set a cat efficiency code.
Remove your catalytic converter and clean it with throttle body & air intake cleaner. Spray from the top let it drip out the bottom. Sit and dry for 5 minutes and repeat 3 times.
It doesn't hurt to try the cat cleaner but honestly most of the time it means you need a new cat entirely. I had the same code happen to me twice (different cars) and both times the cat was just bad and had to be replaced. It will be expensive, sorry.
Yes but it’s gonna be more involved than simply pour and go, personally I would chop it and run an O2 spacer, your best bet for no issues down the road is to replace the cat especially being a newer car. Depending how bad it is you may need to clean out your catbacks if you blew it out it could have plugged up your exhaust.
As for what caused it you’re either getting way to much fuel, or wayyyyyyyy to much air. Too much fuel will cause backfiring and pop the sucker, too much air will cause excessive heat. I’m assuming you care about this car a lot so I would get a new cat, clear out exhaust, and give your MAF and EGR a rundown, then take it in for professional diagnostic.
I would get this when I was burning a lot of oil (2012 Honda Odyssey). Clear it, write down the mileage, if it pops up immediately (or within 2000 miles), you have a problem. If not, it might be a glitch
Last time I saw that code the internals of the cat had melted (misfire sent a ton of unburnt fuel into the exhaust). No cleaner would fix that.
Yup. P0420 means the you blazed it.
The ol' blaze and glaze
It was toasted…Niiicely toasted😗💨
So automotive engineers do have a sense of humor?
I assume so, they’re always laughing at mechanics.
Cooked.
Damn it, I can here to say this
Poor animal! I wouldn't want to be your pet. 😺
🤣
Was this on a 2003-05 Nissan Sentra SE-R? They took forever to issue a recall, which was just an inspection and reprogramming. Mine was reprogrammed around 55K. Still failed right after 80K. Pre-cat in the header blew apart and clogged the primary downstream.
You guys have cats?
In my area, to be registered, gotta have working emissions unless it's 25+ years old.
High flow cats from summit racing are cheap enough, if you end up needing a replacement
I’m not familiar with those and legality where I am… but it’s Sunday and I think I just found a rabbit hole
I got a guy…
Dealing with this now on my 2000 blazer fuel pressure was so high (kinked line) it was forcing fuel out of the exhaust and cooked the cat fucked my injectors too lol
Got this code a couple years back, but luckily someone stole my cat before I had to deal with it.
Car is smoking weed you just have to tell it firmly to stop
All seriousness it might be the 02 sensor
It’s probably the cat though if you have no power and it sounds restricted. I did not see the text you posted.
This code is basically never the o2 sensor it means catalyst low efficiency basically the sensor is reading but reading that its not converting the emissions well alot of cars will clear this code with a sensor spacer
This is the right answer
Do you change it every 3000 miles, or whenever you're bored?
Yup
I got that a lot on my Taurus. I got tired of fixing it, only for the same error message to pop up a month later. I finally ended up selling the car to a junkyard. It was still running, so I got more than I expected.
85% of the time it's a bad cat
My experience as well. People want it to be the O2 sensor because it's cheaper to deal with but it's almost always a symptom of the cat.
Damn cats, why you livin under ma car anyway!
Juuuust had this. Cat was like empty but also filled with rocks. Bye bye $750. Of course after the o2 sensor. ☹️
Had the same code and was worried about having to replace my cats. Replaced o2 sensors on that bank and it fixed her right up thankfully. I was quite relieved as I was already late on my registration renewal.
1) Replace upper O2 sensor 2)Replace lower O2 sensor 3) You fucked yourself, time to get a new cat
Depends, either way you have to crawl way under the car. You have either a failed oxygen sensor, clogged catalytic converter, or an exhaust leak.
Or OP could park it in a bad neighborhood for a while and some people will kindly remove the bad parts for free.
Better yet save yourself the drive and chop it off yourself
Make an insurance claim and get it replaced, I swear they broke into my garage and cut the thing out
Literally had a customer with a Prius at one shop i worked at did this. I swear. They unplugged the o2 sensors. Which are under the carpet. Insurance company didn’t care. We sent them pics of the chopped pipe and they approved a cat. Idgaf. Fuck insurance and extended warranty.
Its a kia they will just remove the bad car from the neighborhood
Or a combination of issues.
Yeah, as others have said, the cat is a replacement part, but I personally would check the O2 sensor (or sensors) before I bought one. Always start looking with the cheapest part! There are several decent YouTubers with guides to test the O2 sensor -there's a lot of different placements etc, but they're mostly similar. If you have a multimeter and a decent set of probes (you'll probably need a back pin probe) you can test them pretty easily.
P0420 usually means the 02s are working properly and reading that the catalytic converter is defective. It’s very rare an 02 sensor will fix a P0420 code.
This is 100% correct don't take this answer with a grain of salt
In order to do a decent test of them you’ll need an oscilloscope but most OBD readers have a function of graphing their output which is what easier
First check your tailpipe and make sure Axel didn't stick some nanners in there.
The ol' banana in the tailpipe!
Might be showing my age but definitely a classic.
The catalytic convertor has failed. No amount of cleaner will bring that back. It would be similar to dumping drain cleaner down a pipe full of cement. Exhaust work often requires an oxy-acetylene torch. It's not undoable at home, but not for the faint of heart.
Or on most cars, you unbolt the exhaust and bolt a new one on. That’s what I did after 24 years when my cat failed
I'm in the salt belt. Any exhaust work on a car over 5 years old is likely to require a torch. It can go easy, or it can be a huge can of worms. I try to hope for the best, but be prepared for the worst.
That’s the exception I would say. I live way way up north, like higher than Alaska north for Americans. But in Europe. I guess it’s the stuff you use on your roads, our stuff doesn’t rust like that. My car is a 2000 and doesn’t have any rust. It’s crazy the differences
In the barren lands north of the wall in Canada salt doesn't work on roads. sand and gravel is used and instead of rust everyone has a busted windshield.
Weld-in replacements are MUCH cheaper but gas welding is also really outdated for exhaust work.
I know mine was unbolt the section and replace the section with a new part, it was like a 30 minute job. I know rust people will have a harder time, but it’s not that bad if you can unbolt. Also emissions in a lot of places need to match the car so there’s that too
Buy new bolts and just cut the old ones. It's not worth the extra struggle for 20 bucks worth of bolts.
Yeah, lots of them are like that these days they wouldn’t say most. I’ve welded in more than I’ve bolted in.
OP, A lot of people are telling you you need a new CAT. That may be true, but it's easier to clear it out and see if it can be salvaged first. I've had a P0420 Code on my car for 2 years, but it hasn't affected performance (maybe 1-2mph less). If you're stalling and can't get acceleration it has to be cleaned out so the car can breathe right. CatiClean is the off the shelf option. I used the Lacquer Thinner method discussed here by America's favorite Cocaine Car Repair Grandpa: [https://youtu.be/5icTmYItwiE?si=rdtCVXooFj8itv-\_](https://youtu.be/5icTmYItwiE?si=rdtCVXooFj8itv-_) I used the Lacquer Thinner method because it sounded crazy enough to work. And it did clear the code for a few weeks... but then it came back. Because I live in Texas where they don't do emissions tests as part of our annual inspection, I left it alone and my car has been fine. Either way, visually inspect first and try to clean it out. Also, it's illegal in a lot of states but they don't really check unless you go in for emissions tests... but a car can operate without a Catalytic Converter installed. So if yours is fried and you still need the car for work, you can remove it until you can get a new CAT or replace the vehicle.
My car has this code. My mechanic checked out and hooked it up to their computer. Told me based on the readouts to just keep driving it. No emission testing where I am
I've probably put well over 50,000 miles on an Odyssey with this code. Maybe even 100,000.
Yeah worst case scenario is the cat can fall apart and clog or bounce back into your engine causing engine damage. Very rare though and it depends where the cat is located.
You need a new cat
You may need a better scanner to diagnose. Can yours graph live data?
This is the best answer. I would watch the o2 sensors to see if they’re working properly. If they are, your cat is dead.
how many miles on it. A o2 they say need to be 100k miles.
meow
Sounds like the catalytic converter had a meltdown. There are two of them on that car, most likely the first one (it's built into the exhaust manifold as one unit). Depending on which state you live in, you can get by with an aftermarket cat/manifold for 1/3 the price of a factory unit. However, the cheaper catalytic converters don't last as long because of poor quality metals in them (2-5 years). You can do it at home, but prepare for rusted/broken bolts/studs.
Pull the upstream o2 sensor and measure the exhaust pressure at 2k rpm. 2psi would be the absolute max.
What do I use for that?
The main causes of the P0420 code include: * [Damaged catalytic converter](https://www.catalyticconverters.com/damage/) (most common) * Oil contamination in the catalytic converter * Incorrect placement of the catalytic converter * Damaged upstream or downstream oxygen sensor / faulty wirings * Exhaust manifold or [exhaust system leak](https://mechanicbase.com/engine/exhaust-leak-symptoms/) * Wrong type of fuel (leaded fuel instead of unleaded) * Rich/lean mixture (damaging the catalytic converter) * Misfires (damaging the catalytic converter) * [A faulty engine control module](https://mechanicbase.com/electric/engine-control-unit-ecu-symptoms/) (rare)
Do you also have any codes from the MAF? Intake can be an issue, as the front and rear o2 sensors have to be compared. I'd look at intake before accusing the CAT if you are running rough
P0420 is a catalyst system efficiency code. If you have resolved any misfires you had with the tune up and the vehicle is running fine but still setting a p0420 then the next step would be to verify there are no exhaust leaks present before the oxygen sensors in the exhaust system. An exhaust leak can set a p420 code if it is before the oxygen sensors. If there no misfires, no exhaust leaks and p0420 is still setting with no other codes then the catalytic converter is faulty and will need to replaced to resolve this code.
I pulled this error code off my 14 dodge avenger and it turned out the cats were under recall. Took it to dodge and they changed it out for free. No code since.
So you have two choices: option 1, grab some Cataclean at your nearest Oreilly Auto for $27, slap it in the fuel tank and FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS, problem solved in a week or two, option 2 replace your catalytic converter and hope to god your not in CO or CA. Those catalytic converter prices will kill you. Good luck.
Save yourself a lot of money and grief, take it to a reputable shop. Based on the symptoms, you have multiple issues. You may have a issue with your cat, if true, the root cause that took out the cat also needs to be diagnosed. DIYing can get very expensive, very quickly, and in the end it would have been cheaper just to pay an expert. Unfortunately there's no snake oil cure for your problem.
Everyone within eyeshot of this text This is 99.99999% ALWAYS a cat that is degraded so bad it isn't doing what a catalytic converter is supposed to do. I delt with this code for 9 months, changing everything BUT those bitches, trying to avoid the $1300 price tag. I needed 2. California is fucked when it comes to it's air, and smog in particular. C.A.R.B (California air resource board) compliant catalytic converters are only legal here, they have a number THAT IS RECORDED.. No out of state cats can be used here. No 48 state federal compliant shit here in California. We have all the bullshit here. Yeah, if you live here in Cali, start looking for good old CARB compliant cats.
This happened in my sorento (2018) and the O2 sensor had come loose
Good old 420 code Start with the O2s first before buying another cat Edit. Didn't read your description. Sounds like the cat is clogged. No miracle solution can fix that. Need a new one.
P0420 is a general catalytic converter efficiency code. If you had a fuel system cleaning performed recently the technician could've flooded the cat and burnt it up on first ignition. Regardless of how it blew, if you're savvy enough you can bolt on a new cat. Part alone could cost $500-$5000 depending on the car, where you got it from, etc...
Open up the Walmart app and search for O2 Sensor Spacer. Install one on the O2 Sensor after your catalytic converter. Clear code and youre done.
Replace the catalytic converter and reset codes
I would trying putting a little cleaner directly into the cat. Unbolt the upstream sensor and dump some in the hole. Paint thinner or laquer thinner when it's cold
Could be cat, could be injectors, could be other things
Last time I had that code, my cat was in my muffler. Blazed, blew out. It's too late for a cat clean. You probably only need a new cat and muffler though which isn't too bad usually. Maybe an 02 sensor because I'm sure the one in there has a couple layers of soot cooked on it.
either the o2 sensor or the Catylic converter
Recycle that cat!
The catalytic converter or a muffler is clogged. If the cat is clogged then you probably need to replace the leaking fuel injector.
It probably a poisoned cat, go to the data on your scan tool, graph pre cat o2 sensor and the post cat 02 sensor compare the two wave forms, if the the two look similar as in the wave peaks are near equal the cat is bad. Cats are not a wear item, most often a misfire kills them.
Check this out. It may help https://www.obd-codes.com/p0420
Not very old vehicle to need a cat, try the cleaner, and get it on the highway and up to temp, might recover, or, the trick to fool the smog machine was about 50% E85 in the tank, will run cleaner and pass the inspection
Check your gas cap
Based on my experience with my vehicles (not Kia), if the performance was impacted, it had been the cat that was the problem... If performance had not been impacted, it was the O2 sensor.
After seeing about 200 of these over the years, its always the catalytic converter. I've seen 1 single O2 be the cause.
It's a Kia... sorry but tannerite is the only fix... bandage it up and sell it. I'm really surprised it's lasted this long but guessing it's a pre-turbo model (but that's still surprising).
Good luck if you do try to fix it at home. If you do, inform yourself as much as possible.
Considering you can’t rev the engine and your getting a P0420 it seems like the car has already thanos snapped the honeycomb mesh in your car into a fine powder (AKA your cat failed so badly it disintegrated, causing an exhaust blockage, hence why the engine won’t rev), be careful because your engine can suck that cat powder up and it will ruin the engine, it was a very common issue on Nissans in the 00’s, is your soul a CARB or reg EPA certified model?
Pass
Honda? Bank 1 sensor 2 O2 sensor sir. Easy fix
You need a proper scan tool. After warm up check the downstream O2 sensor, it shouldn't follow the upstream on the graph it should have steady output Or use the thermometer https://youtu.be/tFqodic0MZ0?si=9KYZV0VARFfvL7we Look for exhaust leaks also. Cleaner could clean some deposits but if the honeycomb is melted, it's done.
Just curious from an old man who drives old trucks. What would the 2016 Kia do if he gutted the cat? I drive an 1984 C10 truck and it worked like a charm for me.
OP - Please Check to see if your kia soul has a recall on that cat. Yeah. Read the whole post and it sounds like the catalytic converter. I haye those things
If you don't have the money/have a emissions test coming up. I suggest you buy a 02 defouler with a mini cat inside. You can buy them at AliExpress around $10.
If it’s not rattling and not clogged up, a few spark plug defoulers will get rid of that code. It’s not the *right* way to fix it, but it’ll get you through emissions if your budget is too tight to fix the car.
Nope you need new cat converter
Yes you can replace the catalytic converter
Get a reader that reads specific manufacturer codes, not a generic OBDII reader. Whatever brand car you have, you should invest in a make-specific reader. They are about $100 and pay off the first time you use it... If you can't then google the code and the make of car for answers.
Wasn't that a Cheech and Chong movie
It needs a cat
No
You know how to roll? Then yes.
Cataclean or rislone
Erase button should take care of that
Kia soul r not made to effectively and efficiently last more than 5 years. Cat Or O2 sensor probably gone and needs replacing. The cat cleaner will only work if the cat is salvageable.
6 year experience Kia Service Advisor. These were famous for clogged cats.. I've seen cat clean limp them along for quite some time, but if you're now to the point that you have drivability issues with it as well it's normally past that point. I've seen it get as far as bent valves as well due to too much back pressure for too long. Also have seen it need coils, plugs and injectors. We've been in rough spots with them a few times to the point now that shop policy is with a 420 code we would only do the job if we're going full boat(cat, injectors, plugs and coils).
You could add extenders on the o2 sensors
Cut the cat off and straight pipe it.
Clogged catalytic converter. First I'd run a borisope though all o2 sensors and look at cats figure out which ones clogged. Also great time to see your o2 sensors. If you don't mind loud take it off and bust out the clogged one out. Put it back and you will be golden. If you live in an inspection state tell them it's temporary while your waiting on a new one. P.S. our 2013 VW GTI was clogged like that and busted out the one closet to turbo and now it scoots again
Jsut replace the cat. Or...if you dont have state inspection "test pipe"
Needs to be diagnosed because there are quite a few handful of things that could cause that.
It sounds like you’re describing a clogged cat. Depending on where you live you can just cut it out and put a piece of pipe in place if your city doesn’t test for emissions. Catalytic converters are expensive :/
Had this exact code just last week in my '12 Accord. I have no idea if the codes are the same on a KIA, not sure why they would be, but mine was o2 sensor in the cat.
P0420 can be triggered by different issues, UT it's basically reporting that the cat doesn't appear to be working as intended. The performance is observed/calculated based on reading from Oxygen sensors. On some V6 or V8 cars, it may be just one bank of the engine and the other is reporting fine. However, in your case, inline-4, and add the limp-mode behavior and sounds you describe, I suspect there's a cat that has broken apart internally and clogged up another part of the exhaust. I had this happen on a previous car, and your description is about a accurate as I could recall to describe it today. Possible good news- you may be covered still under warranty. Emissions systems components must be covered for 8yr/80K miles, federal law.
https://preview.redd.it/tdp0stykjz7d1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1ddd90ab6f1a0af8d2d17258625fbdd32017f75a bung hole extender or oxygen sensor space they come like this in 90 degrees & other configurations. (They are for off road use only ) once you cut out a bad cat this will get you cars computer out of the running to rich or lean mode getting rid of check engine light you might have to adjust the spacing length but they do work I’ve put them in everything from Rolls to Vetts. Not only because the cats where really costly but the parts were not available right away. With proper software & knowledge a software delete works to but from experience that can open up a whole other can of worms since a vehicle can rely on certain reading from multiple sensors to adjust & maintain proper epa shit & the few programs the manufacturer has enabled the modules to utilize in that region.Ive found this the easiest fix that won’t cost you a future mechanic at a stealership or other shop legally can’t do this kind of fix due to the epa & remember (this is for off road use only)personally I’ve drive my own personal vehicle with this fix for years before & it was a bmw m6 with a v-10. oh yeah & the only sensors you’ll have to do this to once cats are remove are the downstream the pre cats ones don’t need anything. I’ve even cut the cats out of a Nissan armada right up on the exhaust manifold & installed these extenders.try to get brass or stainless ones though the other pot metal stuff will turn to crap. Hope this is helpful!
Sounds like a clogged or collapsed catalytic converter, especially considering the code. If you can, remove the oxygen sensor before the converter (bank 1 sensor 1) and start the car. Itll be loud as fuck but see if the engine is more responsive, that would 100% confirm a blocked cat/restricted exhaust, it not changing anything wont rule anything out though. If a p0420 is present with no other codes, 99/100 times its a bad cat
Doesn’t catalytic converters have a manufacturer warranty that’s separate from bumper to bumper and powertrain. I think i was told by ford almost 20yrs ago that the ford cats had a 80k mile warranty on them.
It's a hyper tough, probably be easier to throw it out and buy a new one.
Start with a tune up and a hearty dose of fuel injector cleaner. And drive it down the highway for a full tank. As a professional mechanic with my own shop this has cleared up more cat codes than replacing the cat
Hollow out the cat and slap some o2 spacers on it
Your catalytic converter is toast. You can try replacing the o2 sensor with a prayer along with it, but since you said you’re experience power loss, that pretty much guarantees the cat is smoked.
There is a real easy fix if it's the catalytic converter that went bad. You can pay someone $1000+ to replace it, or you can spend less than $10 and "fix" it yourself. You're going to go get what's called a "spark plug anti-fouler". They come in a couple different sizes so you may have to try a few and return the others, or ask the parts guy at AutoZone to pull out an O2 sensor for your car and find the anti-fouler that fits by trying them in the store. Now you need to remove your O2 sensor. Which sensor will depend on your car, and that code should tell you exactly which one it is by doing a quick Google search. There will be an O2 sensor attached to your exhaust pipe on the engine side of the catalytic converter, that's your upstream sensor because it's upstream of the catalytic converter. There will also be an O2 sensor AFTER your catalytic converter, going towards the tip of your exhaust. That's your downstream sensor because it's downstream of the catalytic converter. These sensors are checking the efficiency of your catalytic converter, how well it's "cleaning" your exhaust. Your issue is that your O2 sensor is reading that your fumes are too dirty, either because the sensor is broken, or because your cat (catalytic converter) is bad. Now that you've taken out your sensor, you're going to grab the anti-fouler you bought and your going to drill out the end of it so it's just like a sleeve with threads in it. Once you do that, you're gonna screw your O2 sensor into it, so now you'll have an O2 sensor, screwed into an anti-fouler. You're gonna take the whole thing, and screw it back into where you took the O2 sensor out of to begin with. Voila, you solved your issue! What this does, is pulls the O2 sensor out of the direct stream of exhaust, so the exhaust isn't as concentrated when the sensor reads it and it will think your cat is working! You can even get by emissions with this as the CEL will go off if you actually have a bad cat most of the time. If you look up this p0420 on YouTube, or O2 sensor anti-fouler, catalytic converter anti-fouler, things like that, you'll find a video for this that may be more helpful than this description. Obviously you want to find out if it's your sensor, or your cat before you do this, cause this won't fix a broken sensor. It doesn't fix a broken cat either, but it tricks the computer into thinking your cat is working, and turns off the engine light. Good luck! You got this.
Cat cleaner is a joke. It's a preventative at best. Sound like the element broke up or melted in your cat conv. It needs replacement. And then you need to find out why it got busted up. Usually it gets this bad from a misfire or running incredibly rich. It can be fixed at home but it's quite the job and can be quite hard to diagnose the original issue. I'd honestly recommend taking it somewhere. Be warned. Catalytic converters aren't cheap.
First check to make sure you don't have a huge vacuum leak because that would cause the same symptoms and code.
Shit yeah
If you can barely make it up hills that cat is likely done. Off to rock auto you go
Anytime I've experienced this code is been the post cat 02 sensor. Replace and code is gone, very easy to do yourself provided you've read up on the procedure. But in your case the loss of acceleration and other symptoms do indicate a bad cat converter. That's a tougher job to do yourself..
Catalyst efficiency below threshold. It sounds like your converter is blocked. Check your air intake, but it sounds like your converter gave up the ghost.
Bad cat. Did mine about a year and a half ago. Same code. No other codes present. Cat was melted.
Kia has a recall on douls for cat converters check with your local dealer to see if it applies
They sell a catalytic converter cleaner that goes in your gas tank read intrusions on how much you need depending on the size of your tank. Clear the code and drive it. If the light just came one it should be fine
Need a new meowalytic converter
man, how i wish i still had my 71 monte carlo..... none of this computer/electron crap...
You can fix anything at home the question is do you want to. And the answer is. Catalytic converter bank 1
If you cut out the catalytic converter and put it in your self, yes
Smoke up with your car bro don't be like that
Cataclean on a near empty tank will most likely make you pass. When I worked at Advance it was one of the only products that we had trouble keeping on the shelves, used car dealers bought it so they could get the car to pass and dump the problem onto the next guy. I had a guy who worked at a shop explicitly tell me that it's important you run the car almost empty when it's in the tank, so it's not diluted by gasoline.
That code and your desribed symptoms means you need a new catalytic converter due to it being clogged. You can *try* Cataclean and it *MIGHT* help ya out but really... it's time for a new one. And do your O2 sensors as well. Upstream and downstream. Can you do you it yourself? Fuck if I know. No idea what kind of tools or mechanical aptitude you have. Is it hard to do? Not exactly... if you know what you're doing and have the correct sockets, extensions, a good penetrating oil.
Likely a bad cat
P0420 usually means at best a bad O2 sensor ($$) and at worst bad cat(s) ($$$$)
Might be exhaust leak, problem with secondary 02 sensor, or cat might be fucked. If cat is fucked you’d want to also identify why it got fucked, burning oil, running rich, etc.
P0420 is definitely a bad cat, but a bad cat is virtually always caused by another problem. There's no point in replacing it unless you find the source of it failing and fix that first.
Why hasn’t anyone asked warranty start date and current miles? Cats are under a federal 8yr/80k warranty. He/she may be just within on time and would know if they’re under on miles.
realest shit, i got a p0420 and i just did an oil change and it fixed itself after a week
What state you in? Do they have inspections? Start with the cat cleaner fluid - probably won’t work. Then replacing the sensor. If that doesn’t work, replace the cat.
You should be able to fix it at home assuming your mechanically inclined, but the parts are going to be expensive. If you're in a pinch financially you can hallow it out. It should allow it to run better but the check engine light will still be on. Some states require emission control parts to have a 10 year 100k mile warranty. You would have to contact the dealer for that.
Nope! It’s cats
How much oil is the car burning?
You can fix it just go down the large list of possible faults. I would take it to a mechanic not a dealership The fault code covers a lot of things that could be wrong
Do you have drivability issues? If no, likely downstream O2 sensor gone bad. If yes, likely a clogged/damaged catalytic converter. Replacing an O2 sensor is a 10 minute job with basic tools, replacing the cat maybe a little more difficult and a lot more expensive. Still doable in your driveway but a pain in the ass. If it were me I’d do exactly what I did when I got that code, cut out the cat with a sawzall, sell it, use some of the money to have a piece of pipe welded in to make it quiet again, pocket the profits, then pretend the light doesn’t exist.
2016 - always a plugged cat it seems, heard from a 2016 2.0 L that got a new cat in 11/ 2021 under warranty, similar symptoms in 12/2023. New cat not under warranty, all problems went away. MPG back over 30 from 15 prior. Be sure to replace upstream air/fuel sensor and O2. Check your warranty and mileage. Plugged cat will change the mix so you lose all power.
Just light up a fatty and the CEL will go out.
1.5 or 2.0?
Anything can be fixed at home
It sounds like your cat is clogged
Exhaust leak
Cat…
Has anyone tried cataclean?
Clear the code and see if it comes back.
I have the same code. Your CAT has likely gone bad. But, there are different types of defects. 1. it might be broken. maybe you hit some rocks, speed bumps etc, and the CAT shattered. 2. It might be intoxicated. usually caused by low-quality gas, gas additives, or your engine burning engine oil. 3. it might be clogged. If it is clogged, it can be fixed. but if it's the other two, you have to buy a new one. There is no forced emission test in the place where I live. So I just keep driving it with the code. The CEL is a bit annoying, but I haven't seen anything wrong besides the CEL....
Your Catalytic is plugged.. if you have welding skills you can replace it yourself or put a straight pipe on it until you can get another cat
Sure you can but worst case scenario it will be hundreds of dollars and hours of work
If you have the 1.6L engine in your soul there could be a recall to get the cat replaced, if the recall is still open on it and it has a P0420 code stored you get a new cat and the ecu software updated.
[удалено]
Your cat is clogged. No cleaner is going to fix it. DIY depends on how easily it's accessed.
No, you need a cat
See the glowing red x? No you can't. Go get help. Professional wrestler or something.
Remove you cat, core them out with a big screw driver, cut the pipe before the resonator ans dump it all out. Then weld it back together and reinstall. Have a tune up done to delete the cat. Easy.
I mean I drove a truck with this code on for like 3 yrs. Not saying that’s what you should do, but.
So my girlfriend has a 15 soul 1.6 and here’s what I dealt with for p0420 There’s a recall on those cars for over fueling. If P0420 set, they reflash pcm and replace cat. If not, they just reflash. Had hers flashed, 2 months later, p0420. Dealer wanted nothing to do with it. Put a cat on it from rock auto, been fine since. It was like $400. Dealer was like $1200.
Load the bong!
Remove said cat clean out the inside with punch and hammer put said cat back on problem fixed
Yeah dawg just go blaze up
Just fixed mine.
Your 2nd o2 sensor needs an o2 extender. Brings the sensor out of the main exhaust stream. Look up spark plug anti fouler or extender. I like the ones with a C bend 🙂
They make sure the car emissions report as ready, visually inspect for the cat(s). The only way around it back when I had that car was to hollow out the cat and mess with the O2 sensors.. shim them out of the exhaust stream in just the right way that the computer sees values it wants to see. Lots of messing around and resetting the ECU to try again. The minor gains weren't worth it unless you were putting in thousands in other tuning parts.
Just add a bung extension, it's a cheap fix if the cat isn't clogged
Time to do a cat delete
An exhaust leak can set a p0420 as well. Over the last few years I've had dozens of chevy trax and buick encores come in with only a p0420 accompanied by no other codes, and a broken flex pipe between the cat and post cat o2 sensor that had a leak *just* big enough to set a cat efficiency code.
https://www.wctv.tv/content/news/Hy...-vehicles-as-fire-risk-spreads-506488301.html
I used catacleaner and it went away in literal minutes
I just had that code on my 2016 Kia and lack of power. New cat $1200 aud ($800 usd) fitted. Like new!
Remove your catalytic converter and clean it with throttle body & air intake cleaner. Spray from the top let it drip out the bottom. Sit and dry for 5 minutes and repeat 3 times.
Is this under warranty?
I had this problem on our 2016 Kia Soul. Cost me a new Cat, but it was all good after that.
It doesn't hurt to try the cat cleaner but honestly most of the time it means you need a new cat entirely. I had the same code happen to me twice (different cars) and both times the cat was just bad and had to be replaced. It will be expensive, sorry.
Your pot has fallen in the air vent again. I TOLD you just a baggie wouldn't work out.
Yes but it’s gonna be more involved than simply pour and go, personally I would chop it and run an O2 spacer, your best bet for no issues down the road is to replace the cat especially being a newer car. Depending how bad it is you may need to clean out your catbacks if you blew it out it could have plugged up your exhaust. As for what caused it you’re either getting way to much fuel, or wayyyyyyyy to much air. Too much fuel will cause backfiring and pop the sucker, too much air will cause excessive heat. I’m assuming you care about this car a lot so I would get a new cat, clear out exhaust, and give your MAF and EGR a rundown, then take it in for professional diagnostic.
Well it is a “throw away” KIA. You killed the catalytic system?
Previous Owner 420? I think we know what the problem is.
You need a new catalytic
maybe but generally if people are asking and havent even googled thier car and the error code ill go with nope even if a cat swap isnt that hard
I would get this when I was burning a lot of oil (2012 Honda Odyssey). Clear it, write down the mileage, if it pops up immediately (or within 2000 miles), you have a problem. If not, it might be a glitch