P0420 Acura Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1
 |
| google image |
What is P0420 Mean..?
The code’s description is Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1). OK, now tell me that again in plain English please…. let’s break it down: the catalyst system being referred to is your three-way catalytic converter; so the catalytic converter is not working properly (i.e. it’s not efficient as it should be).
Bank 1 refers to the side of the engine which contains cylinder #1. On inline engines such as 4 & 5 cylinder engines, there is only one bank. So, to really simplify things let’s just say that the efficiency of the catalytic converter and/or exhaust pipe and/or O2 sensor is not so great. FYI this code is identical to P0430 however that code is for bank 2. You may even find you have both P0420 and P0430 trouble codes at the same time.
When is the P0420 code Detected?
- Three way catalytic converter Bank 1 does not operate properly.
- – Three way catalyst converter Bank 1 does not have enough oxygen storage capacity.
P0420 Acura Possible Symptoms
- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)
The reality is there is still something wrong and your car needs attention in order to be in excellent running condition. A poorly maintained car will run less efficiently, burn more gas, and cost you more money in the long run.
Plus, if your check engine light is on for a P0420 code and you decide not to fix it, another more serious code could be triggered and you’d never know. The MIL lights up whether you have one code or ten! While I have your attention, don’t forget to do oil changes as the owner’s manual schedules and keep those tires inflated to the proper PSI.
P0420 Acura POSSIBLE CAUSES
Following Problems Causes of the Code P0420 in a Acura Model
- Catalytic converter itself is no longer functioning properly
- Exhaust Tube
- Intake Air Leaks
- O2 (oxygen) sensor is no longer working properly
- Faulty Fuel injector(s)
- Leaking Fuel Injector (s)
- damaged O2 sensor wiring/connectors
- Faulty Spark plugs
- Improper Ignition Timing
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
- Dirty Air Filter
Also, Read P0171 Audi Fault Code Problem Solution
P0420 Acura Tech notes
The P0420 code is a very popular one and that’s why there’s a site dedicated to that specific trouble code. If your car’s check engine light is on, get that code read in case it’s a P0420.
The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the switching frequency ratio of heated oxygen sensors 1 (front O2 sensor) and heated oxygen sensors 2 (rear O2 sensor).
A three-way catalyst converter (Manifold) with high oxygen storage capacity will indicate a low switching frequency of heated oxygen sensor 2. As oxygen storage capacity decreases, the heated oxygen sensor 2 switching frequency will increase.
When the frequency ratio of heated oxygen sensors 1 and 2 approaches a specified limit value, the three-way catalyst malfunction is diagnosed.
P0420 Acura Possible Solutions&Diagnosis Tools
The easiest thing to do first is a visual check of things. Visually inspect the exhaust system for leaks, check the catalytic converter for dents, holes, severe discoloration, and check for a rattle inside. If any of those symptoms are there, the converter likely needs replacement. Then, visually inspect the downstream O2 sensor (behind the converter). Check for broken wires, obvious faults, etc.
If all that checks out, you’ll want to check the operation of the O2 sensor. To do that, you’ll need access to a scan tool or oscilloscope. Check that the waveform is pretty steady. If the reading fluctuates then the sensor is likely bad and will need to be replaced.
A few Some Additional DIY tips include:
- Try CataClean, a gas tank additive
- Run 1 gallon of lacquer thinner through the gas tank (when at 1/2 tank) as per Scotty Kilmer
- If you have a heat temperature infrared “gunsimplify check the exhaust temperature before the cat and right after. The temperature at the exit should be in the neighborhood of 100 degrees Fahrenheit hotter when the engine is fully warmed up and you have the engine running at about 2,500 rpm. Don’t accidentally take the temperature of heat shields, pipe only.
On some vehicles such as some Subaru models an ECM reflash will fix the problem. As you can see a P0420 can be caused by many things, so if you have any doubts as to whether you can fix the problem yourself, please seek the advice of a professional technician. Good luck!
Note: Please consider buying one using this link from Amazon as we get a small commission if you buy anything after clicking the link. Thanks!
For More, Obd Codes Check Out Our This Website
Subscribe Our Channel
