FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Tesla/Model 3/Highland (2024-present)/how to fix P0420 code on Tesla Model 3 Original (2017-2023)

how to fix P0420 code on Tesla Model 3 Original (2017-2023)

Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P04202-4 hours
3 min read
518 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0420 catalytic converter efficiency issue in Tesla Model 3 (2017-2023). 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 inspection or repair.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Poor engine performance
  • •Increased emissions
  • •Unusual smells from the exhaust

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's OBD-II system using a diagnostic scanner to confirm the P0420 code.
  2. 2Inspect the exhaust system visually for any signs of damage or leaks.
  3. 3Check the oxygen sensor readings before and after the catalytic converter using a multimeter or scan tool.
  4. 4Verify the integrity of the catalytic converter, looking for signs of physical damage or clogging.
  5. 5Review the vehicle's maintenance history for any recent repairs or changes that may affect the exhaust system.
  6. 6Clear the code and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather all necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is in a safe location with adequate ventilation.
  • Disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical issues.

2. Inspect and Replace Oxygen Sensors

  • Tools Required: O2 sensor socket, ratchet, torque wrench
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Locate the upstream (pre-catalytic converter) and downstream (post-catalytic converter) oxygen sensors.
    2. Disconnect the electrical connectors from both sensors.
    3. Remove the sensors using the O2 sensor socket and ratchet.
    4. Install new oxygen sensors, ensuring to torque them to the manufacturer's specifications.
    5. Reconnect the electrical connectors.

3. Examine and Replace Catalytic Converter

  • Tools Required: Socket set, ratchet, exhaust hanger removal tool
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Support the vehicle securely on jack stands.
    2. Locate the catalytic converter in the exhaust system.
    3. Remove any heat shields covering the catalytic converter.
    4. Disconnect the exhaust pipes from the catalytic converter using a socket set.
    5. Remove any mounting brackets and hangers.
    6. Install the new catalytic converter in the reverse order of removal, ensuring all bolts are torqued to specification.
    7. Reinstall heat shields if applicable.

4. Reconnect Battery and Clear Codes

  • Reconnect the vehicle battery.
  • Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the P0420 code.

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
  • Ratchet
  • Torque wrench
  • Socket set
  • Exhaust hanger removal tool

Parts Required

  • Oxygen sensors (upstream and downstream)
  • Catalytic converter (if damaged or clogged)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0420
Component

Exhaust System

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

6 items

Parts

2 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to fix Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present) error code U0401

    U0401

    Learn how to diagnose and fix U0401 electrical communication issue in Tesla Model 3 Highland. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Erratic performance or loss of power
    • +{count} more
  2. why does my Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present) have low brake fluid warning

    Learn how to diagnose and fix low brake fluid warning in Tesla Model 3 Highland. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Low brake fluid warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Reduced braking effectiveness or responsiveness
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present) brake pedal feel spongy when I press it

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a spongy brake pedal in the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instru...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Spongy brake pedal feel
    • •Longer stopping distances
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present) make a clunking noise when I hit bumps

    Learn how to diagnose and fix clunking noise in Tesla Model 3 Highland suspension. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructio...

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Clunking noise from the suspension when hitting bumps
    • •Possible rattling sounds during normal driving
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present) steering wheel vibrate at high speeds

    Learn how to diagnose and fix steering wheel vibration at high speeds in Tesla Model 3 Highland. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and rep...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Steering wheel vibration at speeds above 60 mph
    • •Uneven tire wear
    • +{count} more
  6. why does my Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present) interior light stay on when the doors are closed

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the issue of interior lights staying on in the 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedure...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Interior lights remain on despite doors being closed
    • •Possible battery drain due to lights staying on
    • +{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