2002 Pontiac Grand Prix Logo
Posted on Feb 19, 2009
Answered by a Fixya Expert

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Service engine light,code po 420

I purchased the 2002 Gran Prix,runs great,but service engine light came on.I scanned it and code PO420 engine catalyst showed up,it has a replacement convertor on it,probably aftermarket.I replaced the rear O2 sensor,it looked burnt.The light returns after a couple days driving.I talked to GM dealer they stated it must be a cheap convertor,but cannot warranty,because it is not original.I need to know if a walker replacement convertor will solve the problem or does it have to be GM.Thanks for any information.

  • aceg238 Feb 19, 2009

    I am going to try a walker direct fit convertor,will let you know results in a week or two.

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  • Posted on Feb 19, 2009
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A good brand name direct fit converter should keep the light off as long as the cause of the first converter failure is corrected. I would not use a universal fit one. Walker is a good brand, I have used them and never had a problem. Here is some more information, hope this helps.

When diagnosing a PCM code or codes: P0420, P0430, be sure to determine the cause of the converter failure. These converters are not likely to fail without an external cause. Typical causes are: fuel pressure regulator leak, engine misfire, dirty fuel injectors, coolant consumption, etc. Also, be aware that some converters on the market will cause this code or codes due to a lack of oxygen storage capacity. A component that must be in these converters, Cerium, is required to store, then slowly release oxygen. NOTE: P0420 is a bank 1 converter code, P0430 is a bank 2 converter code. If the vehicle has only one converter, then P0430 does not apply.

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Related Questions:

0helpful
2answers

There's a new answer to your Jeep 2008 Patriot question! Author image Bogdan Odwazny wrote: The code is po420? This was your reply to my first question some time ago. The answer is YES the c

EOBD II Error Code: P0420
Description:
Catalytic Converter System, Bank 1 - Efficiency Below Threshold
Possible Causes:
- Leakage in Intake and/or Exhaust System.
- Catalyst faulty.
- Oxygen Sensor(s) faulty.
- Oxygen Sensor(s) Control faulty.

Solutions:
- Check Intake and Exhaust System for Leaks.
- Check Catalyst.
- Check Oxygen Sensor(s).
- Check Oxygen Sensor(s) Control.
- Perform Oxygen Sensor(s) Aging Check.
Hope that works.
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2006 nissan altima has a rebuilt engine with less than 40 miles on it the service engine light came on and code is po420 where do i start?

Well you may need to drive the car for a couple hundred miles and then clear the code. Code 420 is for the catalytic converter not being up to an efficiency threshold. That means the cat is not working as well as it should be. It may be just that the car has not been run enough yet.
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Will an open vacuum leak cause a PO 420 code?

Hey Frank how's it going ? Most usually A vacuum leak causes a P0171 lean code ! So I thing your cat is worn out ! P0420 How To Diagnose Bad Catalytic Converter EricTheCarGuy
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I have 2 codes PO 300 and PO 420

po300 is a random misfire code(could be egr passages blocked under upper pleinum;plug wires;plugs or coils.PO420 is catalatic converter below threshold(converter has to be replaced)
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Pontiac grand prix problems

Clean throttle body and idle speed control valve.
Re- learn the idle speed control valve.
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Engine Problem

PO420--Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)

Your Exhaust converter is worn out after 10 years,not too bad,
but should last 12 or 14 years, if engine ran correctly from day one

If you have 2,do them both

Won't pass inspection as is,Emissions are too high
1helpful
1answer

Engine code po 420

Thats a code for catalytic converter inefficiency. It usually means the cat is no longer able to process the exhaust gasses going through it and needs to be replaced. GM vehicles in general are no strangers to this happening.

I’m happy to assist further over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/jeremy_d728a59f986299fa

5helpful
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2002 grand prix runs rough,dies service engine

sounds like you have a vacuum leak, check all the vacuum hoses and replace any broken or kinked ones, also check around the intake manifold gasket for leaks. any air leaks after the air flow meter creates 'un-metered' air which inturn will make the car run rough and stall, hope this helps
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