A P0420 is an emission code included by all the auto manufacturers in their vehicles which when comes up indicates that there is something wrong with the ride’s fuel or exhaust system, especially the catalytic converter.
If you are not familiar, catalytic converters are an integral part of your vehicle’s exhaust system. It converts the unburnt fuel and carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide and water.
If it is not working properly, the oxygen level in your vehicle’s exhaust system gets below the desired threshold causing all kinds of mechanical troubles for you. It is not a warning that you can ignore. If you do not handle this problem, you could end up with major and expensive repairs.
Lucky for you, in this article, we will discussing what a Po420 code is, how long you can drive wth a P0420 code, its major causes, how to fix it, and more.
What Is The P0420 Code?
As a vehicle runs, it produces some toxic pollutants. These pollutants need to be released but you cannot just eliminate toxins in the environment. The catalytic converter does this crucial task for you. It converts these pollutants produced by your car to less harmful emissions and releases them into the air.
As long as this part of your ride’s exhaust system is working well, you have nothing to worry about. However, if there is any problem, your vehicle will be releasing those toxic pollutants without converting them, harming the environment, and getting you a pollution ticket.
To ensure no such thing happens to you, your vehicle’s computer monitors the catalytic converter’s efficiency via its oxygen sensors, installed upstream and downstream on the exhaust. The downstream oxygen sensors are the ones that measure the oxygen content of the exhaust post-catalytic converter.
When this downstream sensor is unable to read the oxygen level, does not display the desired oxygen level, or has gotten into some other issue, the P0420 code will be displayed. In simpler words, the P0420 code indicates low catalyst system efficiency in your ride.
Causes of P0420 Code
If you ever see a P0420 code being displayed by your vehicle’s check engine light turning on, this can mean something is going on with your catalytic converter or that there is not enough oxygen content. There can be a few reasons for why this is caused.
- Worn-down catalytic converter: converters may wear down and become old over time, leading to inefficient functioning.
- Clogged converter: A clogged converter can be a reason for containing buildup and not allowing emissions or oxygen to pass through.
- Leaking injectors: usually create a rich fuel mixture that can damage the catalytic converter.
- Defective oxygen sensors: sometimes the oxygen sensor itself becomes faulty and is unable to detect proper oxygen in the converter.
- Defective coolant temperature sensor: the engine may not reach its working temperature, which causes coolant to run free into the converter.
- Damaged wiring: There are four wires that connect to the oxygen sensors. These wires can be fragile and become damaged.
Is It Safe To Drive With P0420 Code?
As alarming as this may seem, car owners begin to wonder if it is safe to drive with a P0420 code. It may technically be safe to drive, but it is not recommended. If the P0420 code is triggered and not taken care of can cause severe damage to your engine as well as your vehicle’s overall performance.
You can face potential risks by leaving this issue unattended, such as decreased fuel efficiency, damaged components, releasing harmful emissions into the environment, failing emission tests, and sometimes an overheating engine. It will also lead to a decrease in your vehicle’s overall performance.
Ignoring this issue can damage other parts of your car and eventually cost you more than they were initially going to.
How Long Can You Drive With The P0420 Code?
Many car owners often ignore warning signs and signals like a P0420 code their ride’s indicate and continue to drive without having them checked. While doing so may not show much difference but it can go all south down the road.
Ignoring the issue and driving with the P0420 code can lead to some major issues that can harm your vehicle’s other components. You’ll even face more problems with your fuel line and exhaust systems if the P0420 code is not fixed.
You can drive for a short period of time, but do not extend it and have this problem fixed as soon as possible.
How To Fix The P0420 Code?
As we’ve already discussed, it’s best to have your car problems checked and fixed as soon as possible. Leaving them unattended can cause further damage to your vehicle. Just like that, leaving the P0420 code ignored can also lead to damaging other parts.
It is highly advised that the P0420 be fixed. The fixing can depend on what the P0420 code was caused in the first place. But here are some ways you can check the cause and get the P0420 code fixed:
- Scan: Use an OBD code reader to check if there are other engine problems that triggered the P0420 code. If there are other issues related to the engine, you should have them fixed immediately.
- Inspect Exhaust: Start by lifting your vehicle on Jack stands and check for any possible damages or cracks in the exhaust. You can run your engine to get a better view of any leaks. As your engine runs, you will hear a hissing sound from the exhaust that indicates leaks. Be careful not to touch the exhaust, as it can be hot and cause severe burns. You might want to replace your exhaust manifold if there are cracks.
- Check oxygen sensors: Use an OBD 2 scanner to check the live data of the oxygen sensors. Sometimes the code can be turned on by faulty oxygen sensors. You should be seeing a difference between the two sensors; if not, then you need to get your oxygen sensors fixed.
- Inspect the ignition system: Unburnt fuel from misfires may enter the catalytic converter, causing overheating and damage. Examine the distributor, ignition coils, and spark plugs for wear and appropriate functioning.
- Replace Fuel Injectors: Faulty fuel injectors may not provide as much fuel to the engine as needed. This can trigger the P0420 code as it will emit more emissions.
- Replace Catalytic Converter: Catalytic converters may wear down with time. If the above is not the problem with the P0420 code turning on, then it’s best to have the converter replaced.
- Scan again: With your OBD scanner, scan to see if there are any errors still occurring.
- Seek help: If you feel you know how to fix the P0420 code after diagnosing the problem, then go for it. If not, then it is best to take it up with a professional to have it fixed.
How Much Will It Cost To Fix The P0420 Code?
As important as it is to fix the P0420 code, it can be costly. The costs can also depend upon what issue is causing the P0420 code. If you have to replace parts, this can unfortunately cost a fortune. An average price of fixing this issue can start from as little as $10 and go up to as high as $2,000 and more.
If you have to replace the catalytic converter, the price can vary from car to car. Usually, replacing catalytic converters can cost around $2000-$2300. Some catalytic converters may even be covered under special emission warranties. The warranties last up to 96 months or 80,000 miles.
If you are facing an issue with your oxygen sensors and need to have them replaced, then they’ll be relatively far cheaper than a catalytic converter. Oxygen sensors can range from $100 to $400.
The P0420 code can also be caused by problems with the exhaust or a possible leak. Replacing an exhaust can cost up to $30 to $500.
Preventive Measures to Avoid P0420 Code
It is always good to take caution beforehand and avoid getting stuck in such situations where your driving fun is interrupted by a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) like a p0420. Avoiding such problems from occurring will not only save you money, but they will also ensure your car a healthy lifespan and durability.
Here are some things to keep in mind to avoid the P0420 code from occurring:
- Regular maintenance: Taking your car for regular services, inspections, and changes of fluid can help prevent such issues from occurring.
- Preserve catalytic converters’ health: Taking care of your car’s cooling system can prevent engine overheating and ensure the converter’s peak performance and health.
- Quality Fluids: Use good-quality engine oils and fuel to prevent exhausting the engine and will overall emit less toxic emissions.
- Regular Cleaning: Cleaning out your catalytic converter can prevent any clogging from happening. You can get it cleaned by your mechanic when you take your car for services or even do it yourself at home.
Frequently Asked Questions On Can I Drive With A P0420 Code
Q1. Is the P0420 Code Bad?
A P0420 code is turned on when there is an issue with your catalytic converter. This may seem like an unserious issue, but it can have consequences later on if it is ignored. Not having the P0420 code fixed will lead to further severe damage to the rest of your vehicle’s components.
Q2. Can I Fix The P0420 Code Myself?
It is best to figure out what is causing the P0420 code to turn on in the first place. If you have diagnosed the problem and feel as if you can fix it by yourself, then yes, go for it.
You can even search for ‘P0420 code how to fix’ and easily find a bunch of tutorials will be available online. However, if you do feel it may be a job for professionals to take care of, then take your car to a mechanic immediately.
Q3. Will My Engine Light Turn off After Fixing The Issue?
After fixing the problem that was causing the P0420 code, your engine light will turn off. But if there are still other codes present that haven’t been fixed, they can cause the engine light to remain on.
You can check these codes with an OBD scanner, and it will let you know what is triggering the engine light. However, you can call a professional to help fix the other codes if you feel you may be struggling with them.
Q4. Can Oxygen Sensors Be the Reason For the P0420 Code?
Sometimes P0420 codes can be triggered by faulty oxygen sensors. You can check with an OBD scanner to see the live data of these sensors. Healthy oxygen sensors should have a major difference in the data between the sensors.
A faulty oxygen sensor can misinterpret information to the vehicle’s computer about the efficiency and performance of the catalytic converter, which triggers the P0420 code.
Q5. Can Bad Fuel Be a Reason For the P0420 Code?
Using low-quality fuels can be the reason for the P0420 code turning on. Poor-quality fuel will make the engine misfire or just exhaust it. This can lead to the formation of toxic emissions.
Your oxygen sensors will pick up on toxic emissions, indicating there is a problem with the vehicle and causing the P0420 code to turn on.
Conclusion
While a P0420 code may not be among major car issues like brake fluid leaking, it can lead to increased risks of further damage to your vehicle. This article has covered how long you can drive with the P0420 code on and what are the issues that have caused it.
Diagnosing problems related to your vehicle can offer its optimal performance. Taking preventive measures can help avoid such problems from arising and save you from costly repairs.
