FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Honda/CR-V/6th Gen (2023-Present)/how to diagnose Honda CR-V Fifth Generation (2017-2022) with code P0420

how to diagnose Honda CR-V Fifth Generation (2017-2022) with code P0420

Honda CR-V 6th Gen (2023-Present)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P04202-4 hours
3 min read
530 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 CR-V (2017-2022). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

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

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before working on the exhaust system to prevent burns.
  • ⚠Always disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Loss of power during acceleration
  • •Increased exhaust emissions
  • •Engine misfire or rough idle

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle’s OBD-II system using a compatible scanner to confirm the P0420 code and check for any additional trouble codes.
  2. 2Inspect the exhaust system for any visible damage or leaks that could affect the catalytic converter's efficiency.
  3. 3Check the oxygen sensors (upstream and downstream) for proper operation using a multimeter to measure voltage and response times.
  4. 4Perform a visual inspection of the catalytic converter for signs of physical damage or overheating.
  5. 5Test the catalytic converter's efficiency by conducting a backpressure test after the converter and a temperature test before and after the converter.
  6. 6Verify if there have been any recent repairs or modifications to the exhaust system that could influence the catalytic converter operation.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface with the parking brake engaged.
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts.

2. Inspect Oxygen Sensors

  • Tools Required: OBD-II scanner, multimeter
  • Remove the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors using a socket wrench.
  • Test the resistance of the sensors; compare values with manufacturer specifications.
  • If the oxygen sensors are faulty, replace them with new ones.

3. Replace Catalytic Converter (if necessary)

  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, exhaust pipe cutter (if needed), gaskets
  • Remove the exhaust system components (if necessary) to access the catalytic converter.
  • Unbolt and remove the old catalytic converter from the exhaust system.
  • Install the new catalytic converter, ensuring to use new gaskets and torque the bolts to manufacturer specifications.
  • Reassemble any components removed during the process.

4. Clear Codes and Test Drive

  • Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
  • Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the P0420 code.
  • Start the engine and perform a test drive to ensure the issue is resolved.

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
  • Multimeter
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Exhaust pipe cutter

Parts Required

  • Upstream oxygen sensor (if faulty)
  • Downstream oxygen sensor (if faulty)
  • New catalytic converter (if necessary)
  • Exhaust gaskets

Additional Information

Error CodeP0420
Component

Exhaust System

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why is my Honda CR-V using more gas than usual

    Learn how to diagnose and fix increased fuel consumption in Honda CR-V. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle or engine misfires
    • +{count} more
  2. how to fix P0700 transmission code in Honda CR-V Fifth Generation (2017-2022)

    P0700

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0700 transmission code in Honda CR-V (2017-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instru...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Transmission slipping or harsh shifting
    • +{count} more
  3. how to troubleshoot brake codes in my Honda CR-V Sixth Generation (2023-present)

    Learn how to troubleshoot brake codes in your Honda CR-V (2023-present). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •ABS warning light active on the dashboard
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my Honda CR-V's radio keep turning off?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the radio turning off issue in Honda CR-V. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Radio shuts off unexpectedly during operation
    • •Display screen may flicker before turning off
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my Honda CR-V's engine light come on after filling up gas

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the check engine light issue after refueling in Honda CR-V. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair ins...

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Possible rough idle after refueling
    • +{count} more
  6. what causes the transmission to slip in my Honda CR-V Fifth Generation (2017-2022)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix transmission slipping in Honda CR-V (2017-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instruct...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Engine RPM increases without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed
    • •Harsh or delayed shifting between gears
    • +{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