2003 Pontiac Vibe 2003 vibe p0420 code

2003 PONTIAC VIBE
220,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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TOY-8844
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hey,guys i replaced the trans.bearings,took car for a ride,the engine light came on,i pulled the code p0420 cat. eff.below threshold bank 1.i took the cat. out and it was clean could see light through.i removed code, comes back at the same time every time ,40min. of driving on hiway,i wil replace 02 sensors next,any ideas thanks
Apr 4, 2009 at 9:56 PM
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MMPRINCE4000
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O2 sensors would be the logical assumption, if CAT is not clogged.
Apr 5, 2009 at 8:07 AM
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TOY-8844
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replaced both 02 sensors, works great,bought both for 60.00 $ canadian from global-automotive from ebay brand name is Delphi,thanks guys for the tip
Apr 11, 2009 at 7:22 PM
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MMPRINCE4000
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Great news !
Apr 12, 2009 at 6:31 AM
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KAMLOOPS
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I have this same error code, I have 120,000 KM and the Cat is warranted until 130000km or 8 years

Should I take it the the dealer, or replace both o2 sensors first just like you did?
Apr 23, 2009 at 11:43 PM
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MMPRINCE4000
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Replacing the O2 sensors is a logical step, but also check the CAT like previous poster.
Apr 24, 2009 at 6:35 AM
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KAMLOOPS
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Its a 2003 but the cat is still under warrenty. I just dont want to take it to the dealer and then they tell me no its not the Cat and then charge for o2 sensors that I could replace myself.
Apr 24, 2009 at 9:44 AM
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MMPRINCE4000
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The dealer will normally check the CAT by doing a backpressure test, where they remove one of the O2 sensors and install a fitting to a gauge to test for excessive backpressure.

If CAT is not bad, you are under no obligation to have them replace the O2 sensors, just tell them you want a backpressure test performed, get results and go from there. You will, of course, have to pay for test.

OR, remove CAT yourself (it's bolted on) and inspect for black soot, melting, cracking.

Handle CAT carefully, DO NOT DROP IT.
Apr 24, 2009 at 10:55 AM