FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/Corolla/E170 (2013-2019)/how to diagnose P0420 code on my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

how to diagnose P0420 code on my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

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

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0420 catalytic converter efficiency issue in Toyota Corolla E170. 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 engine and exhaust system to cool before starting work on the exhaust components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Rough idle or engine misfire
  • •Failed emissions test
  • •Unusual exhaust odor (sulfur smell)

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using 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, particularly near the catalytic converter.
  3. 3Check the oxygen sensors (pre-catalytic and post-catalytic) for proper operation and wiring integrity.
  4. 4Measure the voltage output from the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors using a multimeter.
  5. 5Test the catalytic converter temperature with an infrared thermometer to compare inlet and outlet temperatures.
  6. 6Inspect for any exhaust restrictions by checking for clogs or obstructions in the exhaust system.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts required for the repair.
  • Disconnect the battery to ensure safety while working on the electrical components.

2. Inspect and Replace Oxygen Sensors

  • Tools Required: O2 sensor socket, wrench set, multimeter
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Locate the upstream (pre-catalytic) and downstream (post-catalytic) oxygen sensors.
    2. Disconnect the electrical connectors carefully.
    3. Use the O2 sensor socket to remove the sensors from the exhaust manifold and catalytic converter.
    4. Install new oxygen sensors and connect the electrical plugs securely.

3. Inspect and Replace Catalytic Converter

  • Tools Required: Jack and jack stands, socket set, exhaust pipe cutter or sawzall
  • Sub-steps:
    1. Raise the vehicle securely using jack stands.
    2. Remove any heat shields covering the catalytic converter.
    3. Use the exhaust pipe cutter or sawzall to cut the exhaust pipes connected to the catalytic converter.
    4. Remove the mounting bolts and detach the catalytic converter from the vehicle.
    5. Install the new catalytic converter, ensuring proper alignment with exhaust pipes.
    6. Reattach the heat shields and lower the vehicle.

4. Reconnect Battery and Clear Codes

  • Reconnect the battery terminals.
  • Use the OBD-II scanner to clear any stored trouble codes 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
  • O2 sensor socket
  • Wrench set
  • Multimeter
  • Infrared thermometer
  • Jack and jack stands
  • Exhaust pipe cutter or sawzall

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

medium

Tools

7 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to fix a loose steering rack in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a loose steering rack in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, tools, and repair instructio...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Loose or vague steering feel
    • •Uneven tire wear
    • +{count} more
  2. Transmission overheating Corolla E170

    Learn how to diagnose and fix transmission overheating issues in Toyota Corolla E170 models (2013-2019) with this comprehensive guide.

    Component:transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Transmission temperature warning light illuminated
    • •Sluggish acceleration
    • +{count} more
  3. how to fix steering column noise in my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix steering column noise in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Banging or clunking noise when turning the steering wheel
    • •Squeaking or creaking sounds while steering
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) shake when I hit a bump?

    Discover how to diagnose and fix shaking issues in your Toyota Corolla E170 when hitting bumps. Step-by-step guide with symptoms and solutions.

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Shaking or vibration felt through the steering wheel
    • •Noise or clunking sounds when hitting bumps
    • +{count} more
  5. how to troubleshoot steering-related codes on Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)?

    Learn how to troubleshoot and fix steering-related issues in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Steering wheel feels stiff or unresponsive
    • +{count} more
  6. how to reset the maintenance light on my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)?

    Learn how to reset the maintenance light on your 2013-2019 Toyota Corolla E170 with this step-by-step guide. Quick and easy instructions for a success...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Maintenance light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •No other warning lights present
    • +{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