FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Honda/Accord/Eleventh Generation (2023-present)/how to fix P0420 code on Honda Accord Eleventh Generation (2023-present)

how to fix P0420 code on Honda Accord Eleventh Generation (2023-present)

Honda Accord Eleventh Generation (2023-present)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P04202-4 hours
3 min read
499 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0420 catalytic converter efficiency issue in Honda Accord (2023-present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0420
Component
Exhaust System
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the exhaust system to cool before handling components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Poor acceleration or loss of power
  • •Unusual exhaust odor (rotten egg smell)
  • •Failed emissions test

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's onboard computer using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0420 code.
  2. 2Inspect the exhaust system for any visible leaks or damage.
  3. 3Check the oxygen sensors (O2 sensors) for proper operation and replace if necessary.
  4. 4Measure the voltage output of the O2 sensors using a multimeter.
  5. 5Inspect the catalytic converter for physical damage or blockage.
  6. 6Verify the vehicle's fuel trim data to rule out fuel system issues.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and secure it with wheel chocks and jack stands.
  • Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shorts.

2. Inspect and Replace O2 Sensors

  1. Locate the upstream (pre-catalytic converter) and downstream (post-catalytic converter) O2 sensors.
  2. Using an O2 sensor socket, carefully remove the faulty O2 sensors.
  3. Install the new O2 sensors and torque them to the manufacturer's specifications (typically around 30 ft-lbs).
  4. Reconnect the electrical connectors for the O2 sensors.

3. Inspect and Replace the Catalytic Converter

  1. If the O2 sensors are functioning correctly, inspect the catalytic converter for blockages.
  2. If blockages are present, remove the catalytic converter by loosening the clamps and bolts securing it to the exhaust system.
  3. Clean the exhaust pipes leading to the catalytic converter.
  4. Install the new catalytic converter, ensuring all gaskets are replaced and torqued to specifications (usually 30-40 ft-lbs).
  5. Reconnect any exhaust clamps or brackets that were removed.

4. Clear the Codes

  1. Reconnect the battery.
  2. Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the P0420 code from the vehicle's computer.
  3. Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • O2 sensor socket
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Multimeter

Parts Required

  • Upstream O2 sensor
  • Downstream O2 sensor
  • Catalytic converter (if needed)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0420
Component

Exhaust System

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to reset the airbag light on my Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017)

    Learn how to reset the airbag light on your 2013-2017 Honda Accord. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and safety precautions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Airbag warning light is ON on the dashboard
    • •Possible airbag system faults indicated
    • +{count} more
  2. why does my Honda Accord whistle when I accelerate?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix whistling noise during acceleration in Honda Accord. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructio...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Whistling noise increases with acceleration
    • •Possible loss of power during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017) brake light stay on

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the brake light staying on in a 2013-2017 Honda Accord. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instruc...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Brake light stays on when the vehicle is not in motion
    • •Possible warning message displayed on the dashboard
    • +{count} more
  4. my Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017) shakes when I brake, what could be the issue?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix brake shaking in the 2013-2017 Honda Accord. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Steering wheel shakes during braking
    • •Vehicle pulls to one side when braking
    • +{count} more
  5. my Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017) won't start and just clicks what should I do

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the no-start issue in Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostics, and soluti...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Clicking sound when the ignition is turned on
    • •Dashboard lights may dim or flicker
    • +{count} more
  6. how to diagnose Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017) U3000 error code

    U3000

    Learn how to diagnose and fix U3000 electrical issues in Honda Accord 2013-2017. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Loss of communication with one or more control modules
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation