FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/XU70 (2020-Present)/how to fix P0420 code on Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

how to fix P0420 code on Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P04203-5 hours
3 min read
575 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 Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0420
Component
Exhaust System
Repair Time
3-5 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow the exhaust system to cool before touching any components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Engine misfires or rough idling
  • •Failure of emissions test
  • •Sulfur smell or exhaust odors

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's OBD-II system for error codes to confirm P0420 and check for additional related codes.
  2. 2Inspect the catalytic converter visually for physical damage or signs of overheating.
  3. 3Check exhaust leaks before and after the catalytic converter using a smoke test or visual inspection.
  4. 4Measure the voltage output of the upstream and downstream O2 sensors with a multimeter during idle and acceleration.
  5. 5Verify the condition of the exhaust system components and connections for any blockages or restrictions.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

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

2. Inspect and Replace Oxygen Sensors

  1. Remove Upstream O2 Sensor:

    • Use an O2 sensor socket to carefully remove the upstream oxygen sensor from the exhaust manifold.
    • Inspect the sensor for damage or contamination.
  2. Install New Upstream O2 Sensor:

    • Apply anti-seize compound to the threads of the new sensor.
    • Install the new upstream O2 sensor and torque to manufacturer's specifications (usually around 30 lb-ft).
  3. Remove Downstream O2 Sensor:

    • Use the O2 sensor socket to remove the downstream oxygen sensor from the catalytic converter.
    • Check for any signs of damage to the sensor.
  4. Install New Downstream O2 Sensor:

    • Apply anti-seize compound to the threads of the new sensor.
    • Install the new downstream O2 sensor and torque to manufacturer's specifications.

3. Inspect and Replace Catalytic Converter (if necessary)

  1. Remove Exhaust Components:

    • Support the exhaust system with a jack stand.
    • Remove bolts or clamps securing the catalytic converter to the exhaust system using a socket set.
  2. Install New Catalytic Converter:

    • Position the new catalytic converter in place.
    • Secure it using the original bolts or new hardware as recommended, tightening to the specified torque.

4. Reconnect Battery and Clear Codes

  • Reconnect the battery terminals.
  • Use an OBD-II scanner to clear the P0420 code from the ECM.

5. Test the Vehicle

  • Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes.
  • Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure that the check engine light does not reappear.

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
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Multimeter
  • Exhaust pipe jack stand

Parts Required

  • Upstream oxygen sensor
  • Downstream oxygen sensor
  • Catalytic converter (if necessary)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0420
Component

Exhaust System

Repair Time

3-5 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present) has a burning smell what does it mean

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a burning smell in your 2020-Present Toyota Highlander XU70. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and rep...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Burning smell noticeable inside or outside the vehicle
    • •Possible smoke or visible signs of overheating
    • +{count} more
  2. why does my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present) engine make a ticking noise

    Learn how to diagnose and fix engine ticking noise in Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair ...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Ticking noise coming from the engine compartment
    • •Noise is more pronounced at idle or low RPMs
    • +{count} more
  3. why is my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present) transmission leaking fluid

    Learn how to diagnose and fix transmission fluid leaks in the 2020-Present Toyota Highlander XU70. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and r...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Transmission fluid puddle under the vehicle
    • •Warning light on the dashboard (typically transmission or check engine light)
    • +{count} more
  4. why is my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present) making a whirring noise

    Diagnose and fix whirring noise in Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Whirring noise during acceleration or deceleration
    • •Noise changes with vehicle speed
    • +{count} more
  5. what causes high oil consumption in Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

    Discover causes and solutions for high oil consumption in Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present). Step-by-step guide for diagnosis and repair.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Increased frequency of oil top-ups
    • •Blue smoke from the exhaust during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  6. why does my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present) rear brakes squeak

    Learn how to diagnose and fix squeaking rear brakes on a 2020-Present Toyota Highlander XU70. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Squeaking noise during braking
    • •Reduced braking performance
    • +{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