You can have the convertor tested, by a backpressure test, which will tell you if the convertor is clogged.
Generally the error code is generated by a bad O2 sensor. There are at least 2, one upstream (before convertor) and downstream (after convertor).
The PCM is programmed to compare the reading from the two, looking for a specific accecptable "range". If out of range the PCM will set an error code.
A dealer or trusted garage has more sophiscated scanners that can test the sensors and give you a more accurate diagnosis than autoparts stores can.
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Thursday, February 26th, 2009 AT 4:01 PM