AutoCodes – Generic – P042C

P042C Code - Catalyst Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Bank 1 Sensor 2

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the Catalyst Temperature Sensor Circuit Performance, which measures the temperature of the catalyst. Common causes include Faulty Catalyst Temperature Sensor, Catalyst Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Catalyst Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P042C indicates Catalyst Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Bank 1 Sensor 2.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Catalyst Temperature Sensor, Catalyst Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Catalyst Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 4,090

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 20, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P042C Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the Catalyst Temperature Sensor Circuit Performance, which measures the temperature of the catalyst. Catalyst Temperature Sensor function by increasing their resistance with increasing exhaust gas temperature. The ECM sets the OBDII code when the Catalyst Temperature Sensor signal is not to factory specifications.

OBDII Code P042C - Catalyst Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Bank 1 Sensor 2 - AutoCodes.com — P042C Code - Catalyst Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Bank 1 Sensor 2

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P042C?

Faulty Catalyst Temperature Sensor
Catalyst Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
Catalyst Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P042C?

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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P042C 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.

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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.