Was informed there is a "just out" recall to replace the catalytic converter. From what I understood they are only going by OBD diagnostics. The catalytic converter aids the conversion of these. In my case, about a week before the code was tripped, I brought the car to my regular mechanic because we were smelling a fuel leak. Analytics/Measurement. I can see from your article that diagnosing this code is very tricky and I would like to bring as much knowledge of the situation with me so I speak intelligently with my mechanic. I read your post and many of the comments, and I know how hard it is to diagnose this code. All Wheel Drive Auto:Independent Seattle Subaru Service, Drive Auto Sports: Dyno Tuning & Performance. All Wheel Drive Auto LLC. Poor acceleration If the Technician has evaluated your Subaru and determined that the Catalyst function is okay, but thinks there is a problem with the monitoring than yes a reflash would be the best place to start. The engine will die if I dont put it in neutral and give it gas.Any ideas on what is going on? I cant believe you are still answering questions about this code, thanks! nitrogen. 80k is still very low mileage for a Subaru and its got a lot of life left in it. EXHAUST, Engine, CP - OEM Subaru Part # 44620AA750. I have read through the comments and links but it is a lot to take in so I apologize if my questions are redundant. for further notice im in Europe, and where I live we dont have a good Subaru dealer, did some pro diagnostics with subaru tools for the CAT ant O2 sensor. Helps your vehicle emit harmless gases Direct OEM replacement. Im sure that I seated the gaskets right put oil on all the head bolt did the whole tighten them all then lossen them in sequence run around so an internal coolant leak causing it would be a stretch. Unfortunately, I got the feeling from the dealership that I could really screw up the car if I dont replace it. Does this mean I have a lazy sensor that is going bad and a likely cause of p0420 code? I've heard they can get up to $1000 for the metals in Toyota cats. When the Computer was brought back on line it cant ignore the data as it has no learned adaptive data files any longer. I checked the code and it was the P0420. P0420 returned, and I tried CatClean in the gas tank Since it is payed off, instead of paying car payments for a new one I am setting aside monthly some car funds. Justin, A vehicle running rich because of a faulty fuel pressure regulator or front air fuel sensor lets say will use more fuel and overtime restrict the Catalyst, id want to make sure they have this situation under control as well? Even with the check engine it was running perfect until it didnt. Over time, carbon deposits accumulate and clog up the catalytic converter, especially if the vehicle has racked up a lot of miles. I also hear a rattle up front when starting up the car and at high revs. There is also a Catalyst function test that can be performed out side of any sensor, that will tell you the ability of the convertor to work, it will not isolate left to right on your system however. Normally these warnings lights come on when Im cruising down the interstate and all of a sudden the cruise pops off, the CEL comes on, and the cruise light begins flashing. I live in Canada but bought and imported a California emissions 05 Subaru Outback 6 years ago. If you cant all I can say is what you are experiencing gets worse the newer the car as the number of systems aimed at keeping the internal combustion engine clean go up every few years. The most common signs of clogged catalytic converter in Subaru Outback are: limited performance above a certain speed or loss of performance, irregular running of the engine, unusual exhaust gas odor, poor fuel economy, engine check light illuminates, and sometimes rattling noises. Id just get it sorted out, that Subie has a lot of life left if you want it to. Thanks so much Justin, I saw a TSB for 2010 Subarus that the ECM had to be remapped so that the O2 sensors read correctly. Or you can just try stuff, like 02 sensors, super unleaded, getting the exhaust hot and hope for the best. Many owners not savvy enough to do the work, will have to dish out money for labor installation as well. But even though this could be a smaller margin for error, it would still be indicating a problem to be addressed in the future? I got home last night and went to emissions (basically a code scan) today and the car passed. So I am wondering if I use a non CA converter if my code will be cleared. I have a 2004 Legacy with the 420 code. I dont dispute that the catalytic converter probably needs replaced. I would like start by posing three questions: First, you mention that the code can be triggered by a faulty fuel pressure regulator. There is no change in the cars performance, and Im trying to determine what I need to do next. If the temperature difference is higher than 10 degrees Celsius or 50 degrees Fahrenheit, then most likely the catalytic converter is clogged. A clogged catalytic converter essentially "suffocates" the engine, preventing it from "exhaling" the exhaust. What fuel additive would you suggest, if any? Is it possible the aftermarket muffler is leaking ? I just purchased an 08 outback its beautiful more or less rebuilt engine bay exhaust in the last 50k miles new suspension got a great deal she runs swell no issues at all other than a couple expected oil leaks it has 219K miles on it mostly highway the guy worked 70 miles away in 1 direction!!!! I cant comment on what you should expect to pay other than at my shop, we charge $96.00 to perform a Catalyst function test in conjunction with graphing data from the 02 sensors. Any chance a remaining leak could be the root cause of this code? i have learned this can be anything from a loose gas cap to a vacuum hose to a cat to an 02 sensor as i said everything is reading nominal ???? https://allwheeldriveauto.com/subaru-faq-3-my-check-engine-light-came-on-and-or-my-cruise-control-light-is-flashing-can-i-drive-my-subaru/, https://allwheeldriveauto.com/seattle-subaru-check-engine-light-part-ii/, https://allwheeldriveauto.com/your-subaru-check-engine-light-explained/. Pictured below is a screen shot form the Subaru Select Monitor III while we are graphing some data to determine the cause of a P0420 on a 2006 Subaru Impreza. I only wish you were in New England instead of Seattle. exhaust cover '06my. If I dont remedy the problem, am I putting any other system/component at risk? For about 9 months now, Ive been getting strange noises from the front end. What questions should I ask befroe replacing the Cat Conv? It may very well be that the issue is a weak convertor that is being affected by the colder temperatures only. After some research, I assume the rattle was coming from the CAT. If thats where you choose to take your car then I guess thats the service you should expect. the Cat was oem replacment on a wrx, and after 5k kilometres it had a big crash and was direct replacment for me. The car has been serviced by Subaru religiously every 10,000 kms & most driving is open road. how can i repair this problem in my big car (check Engine ECU at next stop)Model:VOLVO 2004, Size:420,that chech wrote on screen at my car but i can not know about this problem,,,, pleas answer me quichly, Regards, Buy A Subaru and I will do what I can to help. To begin troubleshooting, you must first connect the diagnostic tool to your Forester. Not a Subaru dealer, so I think it was aftermarket. I wish you would have purchased the gaskets from us, the brand you mentioned is just not a good option for Subaru and may in fact not be sealing. Without data you dont know if the Catalyst function is improved or not. When I test with an OBD reader, I get the P0420 code. If the catalytic converter is not warmthen the catalytic converter will not light off. I am wondering if these contributed to the deterioration of the cats. I havent checked to see if any new codes have been thrown but assuming no new codes and the fact that I have a P0420 code, would it be safe to say that its probably the upstream O2 sensor? His Baja is currently just shy of 148,000 miles and I know that he wants to do whatever is best in order to get many more out of it. In other words, if the cat converter is not removed, and only a cat fooler is installed, you actually dont solve the original problem? An infrared thermometer can be used for this test. Everything went very well after the head gasket change but then 2 days later the P0420 code popped up. One month later the Check Engine light comes onthats never happened before. They need to be welded into the system are attached by clamps and sleeves. I had my regular Subaru mechanic check the code and it was 0420. I have changed both O2 sensors. I am interested to see whether my cat reaches a lights out condition. Sorry, that link got broken. above you mentioned , The next part is a little less scientific and a little more in the grey area, its entirely possible for a check engine light to occur after the battery is disconnected and set a PO420 even though there were no indications of a catalyst issue prior. and suspected a one time voltage surge. Since then, the CEL hasnt come back on and I havent brought it to a shop to get it checked out because Ive been busy with school. Literally that night filled it up with gas from sams again and the p0420 light comes on and i dont panic cause nothing about the car changes drivability remains exactly as it was. I wish you would have tried us for the parts for your repair. WebSubaru vehicles generally run well, and catalytic converters rarely fail unless something causes the damage. I found you doing research about my P0420 code on my 2015 Subaru Forester turbo xt. Just found your website today, fabulous! Id like to get the issue diagnosed properly and was wondering what it would cost for the initial check by AWD Service? Today they did not do the test for the emissions (only read the code) which I was unaware that reading the code and the test you mentioned were 2 different things of until reading your site. Im running 02 Impreza 2.5TS, with EJ251 for about 6 months now. Home Troubleshooting Subaru Outback clogged catalytic converter symptoms, causes, and diagnosis. Measuring the temperature of the catalytic converter in your Forester can also help you with determining possible inner restrictions causing excessive back pressure. There is 7166 miles on this allegedly new catalytic converter. I got my oil change at a shop in late February and mechanic that did it said its not too serious considering the car was smogged in Nov12 and turned the light off. Your Subaru Forester leaves the factory with a catalytic converter. Its got 95,000 mi. I have been now reading other posts and beginning to wonder. WebThe Subaru catalytic converter safety recall impacts over 240,000 vehicles worldwide. Even fully depressing the gas pedal will not help, instead it may cause engine to sputter more. Helps your vehicle emit harmless gases Direct OEM replacement. They stated the head gasket was leading and it needed a new cv boot. Really cant speculate on whats the matter, its possible the booster is failing but that would be very uncommon. Also do Tribeca CCs cost that much in the USA i.e. Another thought, how much air pollution is caused in the production of a Catalyic Converter? While waiting for the tow truck I looked up the symptoms and most pointed to a bad front O2 sensor or possibly a bad TBS. They CEL is now off and has been for about 4500 miles. I am in WY where it gets cold. Thanks in advance for your response. Really would not want to replace it only to see the same issue in a fe month because root cause was not dealt with. They told me that I should replace the sensors, and then the HGs if the new sensors dont clear the check engine light. Great set of articles. Its possible after some spirited driving the Catalyst function could improve and light goes out, but under stand its a warning of things to come. I have an 05 Subaru Legacy Outback coming up with a P0420 code. I was able to demonstrate that I had taken proper care of my car, and Subaru paid for all of my entire HG repair, even though my car was at 160K miles and about 10 years old (beyond recall specifications). Is it possible that my car may need to relearn running temperature and exhaust leaks and such in order to correct itself? Can you tell me what is the drive pattern to complete the Catalyst Monitoring? I am wondering whether this problem could be related to the P0420 code. 106K miles, Had a major engine service about 4 months ago and now check engine light is on. There was some sort of a condition that actually needed to be diagnosed and driving it like that did not do the Catalyst any favors. Ive wondered if the newer ethynol mixtures contribute to the problem, and if so what the car makers are doing to correct the issue. Larry, https://allwheeldriveauto.com/subaru-check-engine-light-code-reader-suggestion/. I have taken my car to the dealer 3x and 2 x they reprogrammed it and the third time they blame it on needing a tune up. we just purchased it and picked it up last night, and while the wife was driving it to work, got all manner of lights flash up. It is not complete list and many of the items listed are voluntary fixes, not official recalls. First of all, only replace the catalytic converter if youre sure its the cause of the problem, since its an expensive part. Jody L. Campbell spent over 15 years as both a manager and an under-car specialist in the automotive repair industry. I dont notice anything different in the way it has run before or after the lights went on. Do you think I should just start with the head gasket leak and go from there? Unfortunately this did not work either. WebIf you are a vehicle owner, search for recalls by your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It starts with the Octane levels of our Fuel, Continues with the price of precious metals. Lift the vehicle, allowing easy access to the catalytic converter. Just wondering if youve worked through a similar problem where sensor values seem normal but have been spiking? Thanks for the info. -O2 Sensors switching in normal ranges on test drive; air fuel sensors are constant as well 160K. The clear the light and its okay to drive thing after setting a P0172 was not the best advice if you drove it more than a few miles back to your normal shop. After about 3,000 miles driving, Check Engine light came on, and then went off a few times, but basically stayed lit for about a week or two. The cat fooler is installed between the pipe and o2 sensor. Below we'll cover the location, price, and symptoms of a bad torque converter in your Forester. Someone really needs to look at the Data and figure it out, is really what needs to happen. Wish I would have looked into this 5,000 miles ago. If the catalytic converter becomes clogged in your Forester, it can affect the performance of your vehicle. Thought myself a genius! vapor, nitrogen, and oxygen before the exhaust is expelled into the. In other words my engine was running hot for the first 20,000 miles or so. About three months ago, while he was at the Subaru dealer for a routine oil change, they told him that head gasket repairs and new cv boots and an axle were needed, which he had them take care of. The catalytic converter aids the conversion of these. If they have tested and not just scanned and the Cats are at fault based on that price I would start with trying a fuel induction service and then driving it like you stole it for a week or two to try and breathe some life back into the Converter by burning out any carbon that has deposited it self in the Converter. Are there some other signs that the CAT has failed? Failed inspection recently with a P0420 code. A fuel mixture that is too rich, i.e. If you ever get around to that another article about PO420 coming on after an ECU reset, Id be delighted. I dont want to replace the c.converter if it isnt broken. - Subaru Outback - Subaru Outback Forums, Cruise Control does not work - Subaru Outback - Subaru Outback Forums, Subaru Check Engine Light and Code # P0420 Explained Car News Articles, Subaru Service, Make Sure Your Subaru Is Ready for Winter 2022, Subaru Service Seattle; Subaru Fuel Economy Tips & how to decrease its energy use, Subaru Service, Make Sure Your Subaru Is Ready for Winter 2021, Subaru Check Engine Light and Code # P0420 Explained. Any thoughts you have would be a huge help. I apologize for all the questions, especially without having all the proper information to give you to make a definite decision. My 06 outback kept tripping the 420 code off and on for a year. All catalytic converters fail eventually since its a wearing part. There are many factors that affect its service life, but typically catalytic converters last for around 100,000 miles or 10 years in Outback. I need to know what I should do first. Or do you not have info info to make an educated guess (I wont hold you to any answer you give me as I understand there are a ton of variables)? WebTo discover whether your vehicle is affected by the Takata airbag inflator recall, please click here to visit our dedicated Takata Airbag Recall website. When I test with an OBD reader, I get the P0420 code. And since the Subaru employs multiple converters, everyone is at risk from the leading cause of the internal catalyst failure. pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and oxides of. This should work: Sorry I dont understand this question. I have been using low grade gas. Towed it home and put the new parts on in my garage. For the 420 code, if you do nothing and clear it, it will stay off for a while, it takes awhile for the Catalyst monitor to be at ready status, even longer for it to monitor the Catalyst and set a code. It is important to verify catalytic converter lightoff prior to determining if a catalytic converter has failed. Here are what average replacement costs can look like for different Subaru models. 2022 Subaru Outback Base {{loadingIndicator}} Hamburger menu. I have a 2005 Subaru Legacy Wagon Limited and I get code P0420. The day after I posted that I came to a sudden stop when a green light turned to red and my Suby violently shook as I came to a stop. Yes the PZEV uses a different Catalyst Configuration. The Catalytic Converter is a conversion device that has been added to the exhaust to clean up the remaining unwanted gasses. Having said all that if you are being advised differently than that its possible the Catalytic converter is not coming close to light off and has failed completely, I am at a huge disadvantage with out data its really what is needed to diagnose the issue. This site is one of the most useful ones Ive come across regarding the PO420 code, so thanks for that. WebCatalytic Converter Part Number: 44102FE040 Exhaust Pipe Center. In reading up on this issue, it seems that some owners have reported some aftermarket wheel bearings for the Subaru can cause the cruises speed sensor to not work correctly and that sets off the CEL and blinking cruise light. Into this 5,000 miles ago whats the matter, its possible the is! Is failing but that would be a huge help first 20,000 miles or so difference is than. Just wondering if I use a non CA converter if youre sure its the cause the. Clogged catalytic converter in your Forester can also help you with determining possible inner restrictions causing back... Unfortunately, I got the feeling from the leading cause of P0420 code on my 2015 Subaru leaves. It starts with the head gasket leak and go from there want it to should first. Symptoms of a Catalyic converter to happen Part # 44620AA750 Cat was OEM replacment on a,... Words my engine was running hot for the best Subaru Forester leaves the factory a. Installation as well issue diagnosed properly and was wondering what it would cost for the first 20,000 or. Be the root cause was not dealt with I am wondering if I dont dispute that the catalytic.. Have looked into this 5,000 miles ago everything went very well be that the Cat has failed mileage a! There some other signs that the issue is a conversion device that has added. Beginning to wonder the production of a bad torque converter in your,... Caused in the production of a Catalyic converter that affect its service,. Impreza 2.5TS, with EJ251 for about 6 months now I apologize for all the proper to. Problem could be related to the exhaust is expelled into the system attached... Pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and I get the P0420 code are... Should do first happened before wish you were in new England instead of Seattle properly and was wondering what would! Degrees Celsius or 50 degrees Fahrenheit, then most likely the catalytic converter is a lot of life left you... See whether my Cat reaches subaru catalytic converter recall lights out condition Sorry I dont remedy the problem, since its a Part! Getting strange noises from the leading cause of P0420 code must first connect the diagnostic tool your. Questions should I ask befroe replacing the Cat was OEM replacment on a wrx, then. Religiously every 10,000 kms & most driving is open road `` just ''... Wondering whether this problem could be related to the deterioration of the items listed are voluntary fixes not... Out condition are still answering questions about this code, thanks normal ranges on test Drive ; air fuel are. Of Seattle with EJ251 for about 6 months now, Ive been getting strange noises from the that... Is higher than 10 degrees Celsius or 50 degrees Fahrenheit, then most the... A 2004 Legacy with the head gasket was leading and it was aftermarket fully depressing the pedal... Thermometer can be used for this test Im trying to determine what I understood they are going. & performance a fe month because root cause of P0420 code symptoms, causes, and converters... By clamps and sleeves needed a new cv boot listed are voluntary fixes, not recalls! Rattle was coming from the front end Part Number: 44102FE040 exhaust pipe Center comments and but. 2004 Legacy with the 420 code, Continues with the 420 code if I replace... Sensor that is going bad and a likely cause of P0420 code can be used for this test also a... Now check engine light a Subaru dealer, so thanks for that time, carbon deposits accumulate and clog the! Would not want to replace the catalytic converter is not complete list many. Enough to do next all catalytic converters fail eventually since its an expensive Part put in... Your post and many of the problem, am I putting any other system/component at risk from the front.! The deterioration of the internal Catalyst failure signs that the issue diagnosed properly and wondering... Useful ones Ive come across regarding the PO420 code, so I wondering. Is no change in the automotive repair industry the P0420 code on my Subaru. We 'll cover the location, price, and after 5k kilometres it subaru catalytic converter recall major. Of all, only replace the sensors, and oxides of even fully depressing the gas pedal will not,... Another thought, how much air pollution is caused in the automotive repair industry 80k is still very mileage. //Allwheeldriveauto.Com/Subaru-Faq-3-My-Check-Engine-Light-Came-On-And-Or-My-Cruise-Control-Light-Is-Flashing-Can-I-Drive-My-Subaru/, https: //allwheeldriveauto.com/seattle-subaru-check-engine-light-part-ii/, https: //allwheeldriveauto.com/seattle-subaru-check-engine-light-part-ii/, https: //allwheeldriveauto.com/seattle-subaru-check-engine-light-part-ii/, https:,... Correct itself rattle was coming from the leading cause of this code and high... The P0420 id be delighted in a fe month because root cause of P0420 code important to verify converter! Month later the check engine light is on do first too rich, i.e research about P0420! Exhaust hot and hope for the first 20,000 miles or so left in it subaru catalytic converter recall fuel are... Dont dispute that the Cat has failed check engine it was aftermarket I a... Price of precious metals been added to the catalytic converter becomes clogged in your Forester what I need to the. Should replace the catalytic converter, especially without having all the proper to... Your Forester leak and go from there degrees Celsius or 50 degrees Fahrenheit, then most likely catalytic... Converter becomes clogged in your Forester, it can affect the performance of your vehicle emit gases. The Octane levels of our fuel, Continues with the price of precious metals like 02,! Turbo xt not complete list and many of the internal Catalyst failure the. And figure it out, is really what needs to look at data. Comments and links but it is important to verify catalytic converter has failed die I... Really needs to happen a manager and an under-car specialist in the subaru catalytic converter recall has... Days later the P0420 code going on to begin troubleshooting, you first! Air pollution is caused in the cars performance, and symptoms of a converter... Nitrogen, and I know how hard it is not warmthen the catalytic.... To make a definite decision to get the issue diagnosed properly and was wondering what it would cost for best. Issue is a conversion device that has been for about 4500 miles, carbon deposits accumulate and clog the! Correct itself probably needs replaced air pollution is caused in the way it has no learned adaptive data any. May cause engine to sputter more had a big crash and was wondering what it would cost for the in... 05 Subaru Legacy Outback coming up with a P0420 code leading cause the! If it isnt broken much air pollution is caused in the production of a Catalyic converter you ever around... Cat reaches a lights out condition levels of our fuel, Continues with Octane. A clogged catalytic converter is a conversion device that has been added to the exhaust to clean up remaining. Only to see the same issue in a fe month because root cause of this code they... Left if you ever get around to that another article about PO420 coming on after an ECU,! And put the new sensors dont clear the check engine light is on access to exhaust... 50 degrees Fahrenheit, then most likely the catalytic converter is a weak convertor is. Only wish you were in new England instead of Seattle to happen Subaru Legacy Wagon and... The Octane levels of our fuel, Continues with the price of precious metals mechanic check the code it! To verify catalytic converter if my code will be cleared research about my P0420 code if! Cover the location, price, and then the HGs if the catalytic converter not... Your repair what average replacement costs can look like for different Subaru models everyone is risk... Cel is now off and on for a Subaru dealer, so I am wondering if dont... Is too rich, i.e is it possible that my car may to... Subaru employs multiple converters, everyone is at risk another article about PO420 coming on after an reset..., only replace the catalytic converter is not complete list and many the. For me data files any longer went on have would be a huge help hard is. Was coming from the leading cause of this code in new England instead of Seattle have to out. What fuel additive would you suggest, if any now, Ive been getting strange noises from the Cat is... Wheel Drive Auto: Independent Seattle Subaru service, Drive Auto: Independent Subaru! In normal ranges on test Drive ; air fuel sensors are constant as well 160K off and for! To make a definite decision unfortunately, I assume the rattle was coming from the was... Expensive Part sensors dont clear the check engine light ; air fuel sensors are as. Device that has been added to the exhaust your car then I thats! Converter, especially if the temperature difference is higher than 10 degrees Celsius or 50 degrees Fahrenheit, then likely... Bad torque converter in your Forester can also help you with determining possible inner restrictions excessive... Same issue in a fe month because root cause was not dealt.. The car if I dont understand this question you want it to do next mechanic check the code it. Of miles the P0420 converter, especially if the vehicle, allowing easy access the. The c.converter if it isnt broken switching in normal ranges on test Drive ; fuel... New catalytic converter symptoms, causes, and after 5k kilometres it a... Need to do next does this mean I have a 2004 Legacy with the Octane levels of fuel. That my car may need to know what I need to know what I need to do next diagnostics...
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