FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Honda/Pilot/Third Generation (2016-present)/how to fix P0420 code on Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022)

how to fix P0420 code on Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022)

Honda Pilot Third Generation (2016-present)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P04202-4 hours
3 min read
563 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 code in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). 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 exhaust system to cool before working on it to prevent burns.
  • ⚠Always disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Rough engine idle
  • •Failed emissions test
  • •Unusual smells from the exhaust
  • •Loss of power during acceleration

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's computer with an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0420 code and check for any additional codes.
  2. 2Inspect the exhaust system for any leaks or damage, particularly before and after the catalytic converter.
  3. 3Check the oxygen sensors (upstream and downstream) for proper operation and connections.
  4. 4Measure the voltage output from the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors using a multimeter to determine if they are functioning correctly.
  5. 5Inspect the catalytic converter visually for physical damage or signs of overheating.
  6. 6Check the engine for any vacuum leaks or other conditions that could cause a rich or lean fuel mixture.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the vehicle's battery to prevent electrical issues.
  • Raise the vehicle using a lift or jack stands to access the exhaust system.

2. Inspect and Replace Oxygen Sensors (if necessary)

  • Tools Required: O2 sensor socket, wrench set, multimeter
  • Remove the upstream oxygen sensor using the O2 sensor socket.
  • Inspect the sensor for damage; if it is faulty, replace it with a new one.
  • Repeat the process for the downstream oxygen sensor if it is also found to be defective.

3. Replace Catalytic Converter (if required)

  • Tools Required: Socket set, wrench set, exhaust pipe cutter, gasket scraper
  • Remove the bolts securing the catalytic converter to the exhaust system using the socket set.
  • Carefully detach the catalytic converter from the exhaust pipes.
  • Clean the mating surfaces of the exhaust pipes to ensure a good seal.
  • Install the new catalytic converter, ensuring the correct orientation, and secure it with bolts.
  • Torque the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications (typically around 30-40 ft-lbs but check specific requirements).

4. Reconnect Battery and Clear Codes

  • Reconnect the vehicle's battery.
  • Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the P0420 code from the vehicle's computer.
  • Start the engine and allow it to idle for a few minutes.

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
  • Exhaust pipe cutter

Parts Required

  • New upstream oxygen sensor (if faulty)
  • New downstream oxygen sensor (if faulty)
  • New catalytic converter (if damaged)

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 check engine light Honda Pilot YF4 (2023-Present)

    Learn how to reset the Check Engine Light on your 2023 Honda Pilot YF4. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and tools required.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check Engine Light illuminated
    • •Engine runs smoothly after repairs
    • +{count} more
  2. why does my Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022) have a spongy brake pedal

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a spongy brake pedal in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair inst...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Spongy or soft brake pedal feel
    • •Longer stopping distances
    • +{count} more
  3. how to solve Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022) rough idle problem at stop

    Learn how to diagnose and fix rough idle issues in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instruc...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine vibrations felt through the cabin
    • •Unstable RPM readings at idle
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my Honda Pilot YF4 (2023-Present) feel unstable when driving?

    Learn to diagnose and fix driving instability in the 2023 Honda Pilot YF4. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions...

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Vehicle sways or drifts during turns
    • •Steering wheel feels loose or unresponsive
    • +{count} more
  5. my Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022) stability control light is on, what does that mean?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the stability control light issue in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repa...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Stability control light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Possible reduction in traction control effectiveness
    • +{count} more
  6. my Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022) forward collision warning keeps going off, why?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix forward collision warning issues in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repai...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Forward collision warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Frequent auditory alerts without an apparent obstacle
    • +{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