1996 Honda Civic PO420 code

1996 HONDA CIVIC
300,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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BIGD
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  • 1 POST
Engine light came on....ECU code PO420
Says it is catalyst System Efficiency Below Theshold(bank 1).

Little History: The car has overheated twice in the last month. First time because radiator was cracked. Radiator was replaced. Second time because hose was cracked. Replace hose and radiator cap. I could not replace the thermostat because a nut is striipped but did replace the temp. sensor. I did replace the spark plugs.

Could the thermostat stuck in the open position ( getting cool in October) cause this code?
or do I need a new catalytic converter?
or what else could it be?
What should I check it first?
Oct 11, 2008 at 1:27 PM
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RASMATAZ
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 75,992 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Normally the fix here is to replace the catalytic converter and before you do that check the oxygen sensor/s.
Oct 11, 2008 at 1:48 PM
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