Bad Catalytic Converter?

First of all, I would stay away from that local repair shop. Obviously they have not done exhaust work to realize how many cats go to a vehicle.

This video can help us see if the cats are bad

https://youtu.be/kNXh1Lphzr4

You have four catalytic converters, and the one that is giving you trouble is cat#1, the one on the passenger side.

Before you purchase, read this description of the trouble code.

P0420 OBD-II Trouble Code Technical Description

Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)

What does that mean?

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.

Symptoms

You will likely not notice any drivability problems, although there may be symptoms.

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 Solutions

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.

*** I would call Toyota and find out about the extended warranty ***

Two left bank, right bank

Run @$900

HI there,

You can put after market converters on a Toyota, they just say that to make a sale.O you have the OBD11 codes they will be a P**** code, this will help me with the diagnosis.

Mark (mhpautos)

A shot gun and a guard dog!

You may be able to have a box made for it that you can put around it. OR you could put an alarm system on it, so if they touch it the system will go off.

You will most likely have to install the original Toyota convertors, as the aftermarket are not approved for use in CA.

A rich fuel mixture will cause convertor failure. Best approach is to have car scanned in live data mode and compare all sensor values to factory specs. Also check fuel pressure.

Find the rich mixture problem before replacing convertors.

Either you go with the original Cat or an aftermarket compatible

What I think he means it’s your money.

If u can find one that’s made to fit your car by spec
For less than what the dealer gave u
Go for it
Do not go for a universal one or u will have a catalyst codes
Good luck

Do you know what codes you got from the engine light? Cat. Converters are extremely expensive so the quote you got is a fair price. It is the parts that is so expensive not the labor.

Thanks for using 2CarPros. Com !

I suppose that would depend on who you would call to quote on the job, anywhere from 200 bucks on up for the cat, maybe about the same for labor to install. There are a lot of variables in this equation mate. Good luck.