Our certified mechanics come to you · Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront
P0421 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "Warm Up Catalyst Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
*Estimates may vary by market
Warm Up Catalyst Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
The P0421 code means that the powertrain control module is noticing that the catalyst system is not performing as it should during warm up conditions. This time period would be from when the vehicle is first started until about five to ten minutes later.
The powertrain control module uses data received from the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors and compares the two readings given. If the two readings are identical, or very close to each other in value, the Check Engine Light will be illuminated and a P0421 code will be stored. If this issue is happening only during the warm up period that the vehicle is running, then a P0421 code would be stored.
Some potential causes of the P0421 code may include:
Symptoms of a P0421 code a driver may experience would include:
If the P0421 code was the only code stored in the system, the mechanic may begin diagnosing this issue by taking a look at the exhaust system. A visual inspection is always the best place to start with any automotive diagnosis.
The mechanic may do multiple things to check the condition of the catalytic converters, such as smelling the fumes from the exhaust to check for excessive fuel, checking the catalytic converters with the engine running to see if they turn red, and also doing a road test of the vehicle to confirm the customers symptoms.
If the visual test checks out, the mechanic may then move on to testing the oxygen sensors and the powertrain control module starting with the sensors. If any of the oxygen sensors are found to be faulty, they would be replaced at the customer’s request.
A common mistake that a mechanic could make when diagnosing a P0421 code would be skipping over the full diagnostic and just replacing the catalytic converter. Although this is the most likely cause of a P0421 code, it is not the only cause, and every other possibility should be ruled out before replacing any parts. This holds especially true when considering that the catalytic converters are usually the most expensive part of the whole exhaust system.
The P0421 code can be very serious. If the catalytic converter has failed and the engine is not running properly, severe engine damage can result from continuing to drive the vehicle. In order for an engine to run well, it must be able to breathe properly. If a catalytic converter has melted internal parts, or has been clogged up by carbon deposits, the engine will not be able to breathe properly and will therefore run poorly.
Repairs that can fix the P0421 code may include:
It is important that if the catalytic converter is faulty, that it gets replaced with a quality OEM (original equipment manufacturer) part. Some aftermarket catalytic converter manufacturers make cheap parts and can fail prematurely. Since the replacement of a catalytic converter is usually high in labor costs, it is a good idea to go ahead and invest in a quality part to ensure that the job only has to be done once.
YourMechanic offers certified mobile mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230.
Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.
