Cars & Trucks Logo

Related Topics:

A
Anonymous Posted on May 23, 2013

Trouble code p0420

My 1998 chevy astro van is showing 2 codes for P0420 what exactly does it mean

1 Answer

Anonymous

Level 2:

An expert who has achieved level 2 by getting 100 points

MVP:

An expert that got 5 achievements.

Governor:

An expert whose answer got voted for 20 times.

New Friend:

An expert that has 1 follower.

  • Expert 134 Answers
  • Posted on May 23, 2013
Anonymous
Expert
Level 2:

An expert who has achieved level 2 by getting 100 points

MVP:

An expert that got 5 achievements.

Governor:

An expert whose answer got voted for 20 times.

New Friend:

An expert that has 1 follower.

Joined: Apr 10, 2013
Answers
134
Questions
0
Helped
61210
Points
203

The P0420 code means that the catalytic converter efficiency is below threshold. Since there are two oxygen sensors, above and after the catalytic converter, they together generate signals which are used to monitor the efficiency. However, if the catalytic converter is bad, the sensor after the converter will generate steady results, without any fluctuations.
You can replace the catalytic converter to overcome this problem. However, there are chances of the P0420 code to come up if there is any leak in the exhaust or the downstream o2 sensor (after the converter) is bad. Ideally, before spending on cat, you should try replacing the downstream sensor, which you can buy at low price from online stores like oxygensensorworld.com and also inspect for any small leaks in the exhaust system. Since the converter can cost you more, think of replacing it only if needed.

5 Related Answers

Anonymous

  • 594 Answers
  • Posted on Aug 20, 2009

SOURCE: Pulled code p0420 on 99 chevy astro, 2wd, v6

from what i am finding the code means o2 sensors. they recommend replacing them and if this does not work than replacing the cat converter

The catalytic converter has an oxygen sensor in front and behind it. When the vehicle is warm and running in closed loop mode, the upstream oxygen sensor waveform reading should fluctuate. The downstream O2 sensor reading should be fairly steady. Typically the P0420 code triggers the Check Engine Light if the readings of the two sensors are similar. This is indicative of (among other things) a converter that is not working as efficiently as it should be (according to specs). It is part of the vehicle emissions system.

causes

A code P0420 may mean that one or more of the following has happened:

  • Leaded fuel was used where unleaded was called for
  • An oxygen sensor is not reading (functioning) properly
  • The engine coolant temperature sensor is not working properly
  • Damaged or leaking exhaust manifold / catalytic converter / exhaust pipe
  • Retarded spark timing
  • The oxygen sensors in front and behind the converter are reporting too similar of readings
possible soloutions

Some suggested steps for troubleshooting a P0420 code include:
  • Check for exhaust leaks at the manifold, pipes, catalytic converter. Repair as required.
  • Use a scope to diagnose the oxygen sensor operation (Tip: The oxygen sensor in front of the catalytic converter normally has a fluctuating waveform. The waveform of the sensor behind the converter should be more steady).
  • Inspect the downstream heated oxygen sensor (HO2), replace if necessary
  • Replace the catalytic converter
One thing to note is that many vehicle manufacturers offer a longer warranty on emissions-related parts. So if you have a newer car but it's out of it's bumper-to-bumper warranty, there still may be warranty on this type of problem. Many manufacturers give a five year, unlimited mileage warranty on these items. It's worth checking into.


thank you for choosing fixya and please do not forget to comment and rate on your experience.

Ad
emissionwiz

Marvin

  • 85242 Answers
  • Posted on Jan 05, 2010

SOURCE: What is the Diagnostic Trouble Code PO442 for a

P0442 - Evaporative Emission (EVAP) System Small Leak Detected

POSS LOOSE OR DEFECTIVE GAS CAP.

Ed Paje

  • 632 Answers
  • Posted on May 03, 2010

SOURCE: code p0332 and p0420

16716/P0332 - Knock Sensor 2 (G66): Signal Too Low Possible Symptoms

  • Irregular rpm
  • Drivability problems
  • Loss of power
  • Engine damage
Possible Causes
  • Circuit G66 short to Ground
  • Circuit G66 open
  • G66 improperly torqued
  • G66 damaged
  • Control Module damaged
16804/P0420/001056 - Catalyst 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
Possible 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

mike mountain

  • 1916 Answers
  • Posted on Dec 23, 2010

SOURCE: What do trouble codes 67,81, and 82 mean for a

67 a/c pressure sensor circuit or a/c clutch circuit failure

81 brake input circuit fault
82 ignition control (IC) 3X signal error

Testimonial: "I'll give it a try. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!!!"

Anonymous

  • 3 Answers
  • Posted on May 23, 2012

SOURCE: 1999 Chevy Astro Van. Don't know exact model # of

the code p01870 i believe it is the 1-2 shift solenoid.

Ad

Add Your Answer

×

Uploading: 0%

my-video-file.mp4

Complete. Click "Add" to insert your video. Add

×

Loading...
Loading...

Related Questions:

0helpful
1answer

I cant get the trouble codes, when I connect the jumper wire under the dash nothing happens. The check light doesn't blink at all. It runs o.k. at first but when it warms up it runs like ssh it. The

you may not have codes some problems dont cause trouble codes --bad catalyic converter --tune up needed--egr valve --fuel filter --fuel pump failure -to name a few
0helpful
1answer

My 2005 chevy equinox keeps showing problem code P0420 How do I fix this problem?

0 2 sensor near the catalytic converter or

replace the catalytic converter

The downstream O2 sensor reading should be fairly steady. Typically the P0420 code triggers the Check Engine Light if the readings of the two sensors are similar.

Read more at: https://www.obd-codes.com/p0420
Copyright OBD-Codes.com

https://www.obd-codes.com/p0420
0helpful
2answers

I have a 1996 astro van with a trouble code of PO420

catalytic converter is either plugging or is burning out
0helpful
1answer

How do i revtieve the trouble codes for a 2002 chevy astro van

loosen fuel lines at throttle body when turning key to on possion , careful not to spill gas all over engine, do you hear fuel pump running and try to put at least 4-5 gallions of fuel, you could try a (LITTLE ) shot of starting fluid ?good luck hope this helps.
0helpful
1answer

1999 Chevy astro van won't start

Had the same issue with our 1999 chevy astro van, would crank but would not start. It had been raining and windshield had a leak, after 2 days of no rain it started. Pulled codes and was the Security system in the ignition switch. Hope this helps.
7helpful
2answers

What do trouble codes 67,81, and 82 mean for a 1993 Chevy Astro Van? THX

67 a/c pressure sensor circuit or a/c clutch circuit failure

81 brake input circuit fault
82 ignition control (IC) 3X signal error
0helpful
2answers

1999 Chevy Astro Van. Don't know exact model # of

You should have a 4l60E in your astro van. Which is electrically controlled, so no vacuum modulator. However, to address the ventilation selector not working... look for a vacuum line exiting the firewall and going to the passenger rear of the intake manifold. You will likely find it broken or disconnected there.
1helpful
1answer

2003 chevy astro awd code P0420 cat system efficiency below thres

if you had a problem with the converter you would also have more codes than just that one you would have codes for the evap plus the bank 2 codes as well chances are the O2 sensor on the bank one is the propblem so i would replace it and clear the code no problems should exist after that. as far as the security system the only way it would cause a stall is if that power feed comes from the ignition relay to supply that circuit to the cutout of the security system in a continuous loop and then only if the relay itself is found to be weak
0helpful
1answer

97 Chevy Astro van lugs, like it misses, B4 finally cranking on

crank shaft sen. is easy enough to change.its mounted near timing chain cover,cam sen.is somewhat harder,its in the distributor,id doubt that both are defect
0helpful
1answer

1997 chevy astro van

Has the 'Check Engine' light come on? I had this problem at 30,000 miles and the trouble codes set were transmission component slipping. Ultimately required replacement of the transmission.
Not finding what you are looking for?

927 views

Ask a Question

Usually answered in minutes!

Top Cars & Trucks Experts

ZJ Limited
ZJ Limited

Level 3 Expert

17989 Answers

john h

Level 3 Expert

29494 Answers

Arnie Burke
Arnie Burke

Level 3 Expert

7339 Answers

Are you a Car and Truck Expert? Answer questions, earn points and help others

Answer questions

Manuals & User Guides

Loading...