Trouble code P0420 won't pass smog

Tiny
NJCOWGIRL
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 DODGE STRATUS
  • 2.4L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 184,000 MILES
Have an 04 Dodge Stratus 4cyl. Ck engine light on, manually reset 2 times comes back on after only 25 miles of driving but had almost no gas first time. Failed inspection due to ck. Engine light on. Got P0420 code. Light is off now (manually reset 2nd time) question is, if I fill tank with premium gas and/or use CRC0563 additive do you think I may be able to keep light off long enough to complete a drive cycle and pass inspection Don't want to go through the cost to fix the car as I will be selling it in about 2 months Just need a quick fix for now to pass inspection and be able to drive around for a few weeks without getting a ticket. Thanks! Oh should mention, changed oil, air filter about 600 miles ago, changed entire exhaust system inc. Cat. Converter about a year ago(i forget why but not for this issue) Car runs fine no other issues. I bought car about 18 months ago, had a good sticker so didn't worry about it, but check engine light has been on since day 1 with this car and the only code I get is this stupid P0420
Wednesday, February 4th, 2015 AT 9:02 AM

2 Replies

Tiny
HMAC300
  • MECHANIC
  • 48,601 POSTS
Nope check for air leak or maybe bad O2 but 420 code is usually converter. With your mileage I'd say converter.
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Wednesday, February 4th, 2015 AT 9:37 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 47,602 POSTS
The P0420 code on a 2004 Dodge Stratus indicates a problem with the efficiency of the catalytic converter system, specifically for Bank 1. I would clear the codes and then drive it easy so the catalytic converter can keep up and then smog it as soon as the monitors clear, here is a guide to help you.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-reset-an-engine-computer-monitor-program

Please go over this guide and get back to us.

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Saturday, July 20th, 2024 AT 7:15 PM

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