Q: Bad O2 sensor

asked by on February 05, 2016

I am getting code P0420. I think it is the O2 sensor, bank 1.

Oxygen Sensor Replacement $123.80 - $932.74 Get a Quote
Catalytic Converter Replacement $288.41 - $1959.69 Get a Quote

Hello, code P0420 represents right main catalyst deterioration. There can be a few things that need to be checked before replacing parts. The intake system needs to be inspected for vacuum leaks and unmetered air leaks. The exhaust system should be checked for leaks, from the exhaust manifolds all the way to the oxygen sensor after the catalytic converter. A scanner should be connected and the oxygen sensor. After, the car should be monitored for voltage activity, and test to see if it can be driven rich and lean. The mostly likely failed part is the catalytic converter,but some people believe in trying an oxygen sensor first. I would have a mechanic inspect your vehicle and let you know if you need a oxygen sensor or catalytic converter replacement.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Overheating after thermostat replacement
Hello. You could be having a problem with your radiator being clogged up. This will cause the flow of the coolant in the system to be restricted, causing the truck to overheat. A clog in the heater core could also...
Jeep door will not open
If the door is not opening, then either the linkage has become disconnected or there is an issue with the door latch itself. The door panel will need to be removed so the linkage can be inspected. The latch may...
engine noise after starting
This may be an indication that the starter drive is not disengaging from the flywheel after the engine starts. The danger in this is that the starter drive may fly apart and damage the flywheel or engine aside from destroying...
Idling while driving
The main issue you have here is the number of miles on your car. With this many miles, most cars would have been completely worn out. Unless you have taken meticulous car of your car, it is often necessary to...
My car cranks but won't start.
Hello, thanks for writing in about your 2002 Pontiac Grand AM. There are several possible causes for a vehicle to not start. There could be a fuel supply problem, an ignition problem, or even a failed sensor. For an issue...
car wont start
In this case, the problem is either the range selector which tells the transmission which gear has been selected, or the park/neutral switch, which will cut power to ignition if the selector lever is in any position other than park...
How often should I change my transmission fluid?
Honda recommends the transmission fluid be changed every 37,500 miles under "severe" conditions and every 120,000 under "normal" conditions. In my 30+ years of working on vehicles and maintaining my own vehicles, I recommend a more in the middle schedule....
Car starts fine in the morning then after I stop it won't start back up an backfires real bad
Hi there: On a carburetor powered V-6 it is very likely that your choke or idle adjustment screw on the carb is dirty and simply needs to be cleaned. If you've never done this before on your vehicle, it might...
Turn signal blowing fuse
Hello, thank you for writing in. When a fuse continues to blow, there is an extra power source coming from somewhere. Typically this means there is a short somewhere in the system. Tracing out this short can be difficult. If...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're a Doctor Who Makes House Calls
If If you are a doctor who makes house calls, reliability is likely to be at the forefront of your mind when it comes to choosing a used car. You also expect a certain level of comfort. We have evaluated...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Love Camping
Do Do you love camping, getting back to nature and enjoying life in the great outdoors? If you do, then you know that getting there can be half the fun, and it’s even better if you have a great ride....
How Long Does an Oil Temperature Sensor Last?
Oil Oil is vital for engine operation – you can’t drive without it. Trying to run your car’s engine without oil would result in catastrophic damage. However, it’s just as important that the engine oil is monitored at all times....