FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Honda/Pilot/YF3 (2016-2022)/what does code P0420 mean for my Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022)

what does code P0420 mean for my Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022)

Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P04202-4 hours
3 min read
487 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0420 catalytic converter efficiency issue in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0420
Component
Exhaust System
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

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

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Engine performance issues, such as rough idling or stalling
  • •Increased emissions
  • •Unusual exhaust smells, such as sulfur or rotten eggs

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0420.
  2. 2Inspect the exhaust system for visible leaks or damage.
  3. 3Check the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors for proper operation.
  4. 4Measure the voltage output of the oxygen sensors with a multimeter.
  5. 5Inspect the catalytic converter for physical damage or blockage.
  6. 6Verify fuel trim readings to check for rich or lean conditions.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and the engine is cool.
  • Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shorts.

2. Inspect and Replace Oxygen Sensors

  • Tools Required: O2 sensor socket, wrench, multimeter
  • Remove the upstream oxygen sensor (before the catalytic converter).
    • Disconnect the sensor’s electrical connector.
    • Use the O2 sensor socket to unscrew the sensor from the exhaust pipe.
  • Install the new oxygen sensor.
    • Apply anti-seize compound on the threads of the new sensor.
    • Screw it in place and connect the electrical connector.
  • Repeat for the downstream oxygen sensor if necessary.

3. Inspect and Replace the Catalytic Converter

  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, cutting tools (if necessary)
  • Remove the exhaust system components that obstruct access to the catalytic converter.
  • Disconnect the catalytic converter from the exhaust manifold and exhaust pipe.
  • Install the new catalytic converter.
    • Ensure all gaskets and seals are in place.
    • Tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque values.
  • Reinstall any removed exhaust components.

4. Clearing the Code

  • Reconnect the battery.
  • Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the P0420 code from the memory.

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
  • Wrench
  • Multimeter
  • Torque wrench
  • Cutting tools

Parts Required

  • Upstream oxygen sensor
  • Downstream oxygen sensor
  • Catalytic converter

Additional Information

Error CodeP0420
Component

Exhaust System

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why does my Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022) make a popping noise when braking

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the popping noise when braking in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair ...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Popping noise when applying the brakes
    • •Vibration felt in the brake pedal
    • +{count} more
  2. how to fix my Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022) if it wanders on the highway

    Learn how to diagnose and fix wandering steering issues in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Vehicle drifts or wanders to one side while driving straight
    • •Uneven tire wear observed on the front or rear tires
    • +{count} more
  3. how to perform a maintenance reset on Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022)?

    Learn how to reset the maintenance light on Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022) after routine maintenance. Step-by-step guide for easy reset.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Maintenance light remains illuminated on the dashboard
    • •No change in vehicle performance
    • +{count} more
  4. how do I fix a rough idle in my Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022) after a cold start?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix rough idle issues in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instruc...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine vibrates excessively at idle
    • +{count} more
  5. how to diagnose electric power steering problems in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix electric power steering problems in Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and solutions.

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Steering feels heavy or unresponsive
    • •Intermittent or constant EPS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • +{count} more
  6. how to fix a popping noise in the Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022) steering

    Learn how to diagnose and fix popping noise in the steering of Honda Pilot YF3 (2016-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and re...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Popping or clicking noise while turning the steering wheel
    • •Steering wheel feels loose or has excessive play
    • +{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