FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Honda/Accord/9th Generation (2013-2017)/how to fix P0420 code on Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017)

how to fix P0420 code on Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017)

Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P04202-4 hours
3 min read
515 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 exhaust system issue in Honda Accord 2013-2017. 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
  • •Engine stalling or rough idle
  • •Poor acceleration or loss of power
  • •Unusual exhaust odors
  • •Increased emissions during testing

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0420 code and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the exhaust system for any visible leaks or damage, especially around the catalytic converter and exhaust manifold.
  3. 3Check the oxygen sensors' wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion.
  4. 4Measure the voltage output of the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors using a multimeter.
  5. 5Test the catalytic converter temperature using an infrared thermometer to compare inlet and outlet temperatures.
  6. 6Verify fuel trims using the OBD-II scanner to check for any fuel-related issues.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the battery to ensure safety while working on the vehicle.

2. Inspect and Replace Oxygen Sensors

  1. Locate the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors on the exhaust system.
  2. Remove the oxygen sensor connectors.
  3. Use an oxygen sensor socket to unscrew and remove the old sensors.
  4. Install new oxygen sensors by reversing the removal process. Ensure they are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications (typically around 30 Nm).
  5. Reconnect the oxygen sensor connectors.

3. Inspect and Replace Catalytic Converter

  1. If the oxygen sensors are functioning properly, inspect the catalytic converter.
  2. Remove any heat shields or brackets holding the catalytic converter in place.
  3. Use a socket set to remove the bolts securing the catalytic converter to the exhaust manifold and the exhaust pipe.
  4. Carefully take out the old catalytic converter.
  5. Install the new catalytic converter, ensuring proper alignment with the exhaust system. Torque the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications (typically around 40 Nm).
  6. Reinstall any heat shields or brackets removed earlier.

4. Clear Error Codes

  1. Reconnect the battery.
  2. Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the P0420 code from the vehicle's computer.

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
  • Socket set
  • Oxygen sensor socket
  • Multimeter
  • Torque wrench
  • Infrared thermometer

Parts Required

  • Upstream oxygen sensor
  • Downstream oxygen sensor
  • Catalytic converter

Additional Information

Error CodeP0420
Component

Exhaust System

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my Honda Accord key fob won't work, how can I fix it?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a non-functioning key fob for Honda Accord. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Key fob buttons unresponsive
    • •Vehicle does not unlock when fob is pressed
    • +{count} more
  2. my Honda Accord feels like it's losing power what could be the issue

    Discover how to diagnose and fix power loss issues in Honda Accord. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine stalling during acceleration
    • •Poor acceleration response
    • +{count} more
  3. how to fix P0420 code on Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017)

    P0420

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0420 code for catalytic converter efficiency in Honda Accord (2013-2017). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic and repair...

    Component:Exhaust System
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Decreased fuel efficiency
    • +{count} more
  4. my Honda Accord shakes when I brake what should I do

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

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Vehicle shakes or vibrates during braking
    • •Steering wheel may tremble or vibrate
    • +{count} more
  5. my Honda Accord shakes when I accelerate, what could it be?

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

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Shaking or vibrating felt in the steering wheel or throughout the vehicle during acceleration
    • •Increased vibration at higher speeds
    • +{count} more
  6. my Honda Accord feels like it's slipping when I accelerate

    Learn how to diagnose and fix transmission slipping in Honda Accord. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Slipping or loss of power during acceleration
    • •Engine RPMs increase without corresponding vehicle speed increase
    • +{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