AutoCodes – Honda – P0420 2016 Honda CR-V

P0420 2016 Honda CR-V Code - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold

Quick Answer

The Three-Way Catalytic Converter (TWC) converts Hydrocarbons (HC), Carbon Monoxide (CO), and Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) in the exhaust gas to water vapor, Carbon Dioxide (CO 2), and Dinitrogen (N 2). Common causes include Faulty Three-Way Catalytic Converter (TWC), Faulty Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor (Secondary HO2S (Sensor 2)), Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted. Severity is Moderate - service should be scheduled soon. The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

What it means: P0420 2016 Honda CR-V indicates Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Three-Way Catalytic Converter (TWC), Faulty Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor (Secondary HO2S (Sensor 2)), Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted.
Severity: Moderate - service should be scheduled soon.
Can I drive?: The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

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Code Popularity 953

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Moderate (Service soon) (2 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 18, 2023

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0420 2016 Honda CR-V Description

The Three-Way Catalytic Converter (TWC) converts Hydrocarbons (HC), Carbon Monoxide (CO), and Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) in the exhaust gas to water vapor, Carbon Dioxide (CO 2), and Dinitrogen (N 2). The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) fluctuates the air/fuel ratio temporarily to detect the performance of the TWC and measures the degree of fluctuation in the secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor (Secondary HO2S (Sensor 2)) output. If the accumulated value for a set time is too great, deterioration of the performance of the catalyst is detected, and the PCM detects a malfunction and stores a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).

OBDII Code P0420 2016 Honda CR-V - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold - AutoCodes.com — P0420 2016 Honda CR-V Code - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0420 2016 Honda CR-V?

Faulty Three-Way Catalytic Converter (TWC)
Faulty Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor (Secondary HO2S (Sensor 2))
Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted
Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0420 2016 Honda CR-V?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

As the code description implies, the P0420 code means that the vehicle's Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected that the Three-way Catalyst Converter is not working properly (it is not as efficient as the factory expects). Replacing the oxygen (O2) sensors may sometimes fix the code, but in most cases, the Three-way Catalyst Converter needs to be replaced to resolve the problem. If the P0420 code is combined with other codes, try addressing the other codes first.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0420 2016 Honda CR-V code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0420 2016 Honda CR-V code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0420 2016 Honda CR-V code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0420 2016 Honda CR-V Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V?

The common symptoms of code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V include a check engine light illuminated on the dashboard, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential decrease in engine performance.

2. What does OBDII code P0420 Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold indicate in a 2016 Honda CR-V?

Code P0420 indicates that the catalytic converter in the exhaust system of the 2016 Honda CR-V is not operating at the efficiency levels required for proper emissions control.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V?

Possible causes of code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V include a faulty catalytic converter, oxygen sensor issues, exhaust leaks, engine misfires, or issues with the fuel system.

4. Can driving with OBDII code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V cause further damage?

Continued driving with code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V may cause damage to the engine or other components, as the catalytic converter plays a crucial role in reducing harmful emissions.

5. How can I diagnose OBDII code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V?

Diagnosing code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code, inspecting the catalytic converter and related components, and conducting tests on the oxygen sensors.

6. Are there any DIY repairs for OBDII code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V?

DIY repairs for code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V may include checking for exhaust leaks, replacing oxygen sensors, or cleaning the catalytic converter. However, complex repairs may require professional assistance.

7. How much does it cost to fix OBDII code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V?

The cost to fix code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V can vary depending on the specific issue causing the code. Repairs may range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to over a thousand dollars for catalytic converter replacement.

8. Can resetting the check engine light resolve OBDII code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V?

Resetting the check engine light without addressing the underlying issue causing code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V is not recommended, as the problem will likely reoccur, and it may lead to further complications.

9. Will code P0420 cause my 2016 Honda CR-V to fail emissions testing?

Yes, code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V typically indicates an issue with emissions control, which can result in a failed emissions test. It is essential to address the problem before attempting another test.

10. How long can I safely drive with OBDII code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V?

It is recommended not to drive for an extended period with code P0420 in a 2016 Honda CR-V, as it can lead to increased emissions, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to other engine components. Addressing the issue promptly is advisable.