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DTC - Diagnostic Trouble Codes information

P0420

Powertrain Codes

P0420 - HONDA - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)

Symptoms

- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)

Possible Causes

- Three way catalyst converter Bank 2 - Exhaust tube - Intake air leaks - Fuel injectors may be faulty - Fuel injector leaks - Spark plugs may be faulty - Improper ignition timing - Engine Control Module

When Detected

- Three way catalytic converter Bank 1 does not operate properly. - Three way catalyst converter Bank 1 does not have enough oxygen storage capacity.

Tech Notes

This code is very common with high mileage Honda vehicles. The most common cause it the three way catalyst converter Bank 1. Changing just the O2 sensor usually don't repair the problem.

Description

The ECM or PCM monitors the switching frequency ratio of heated oxygen sensors 1 and 2. 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 (Manifold) malfunction is diagnosed.