FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/Corolla/E170 (2013-2019)/how to fix P0420 code in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

how to fix P0420 code in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P04202-4 hours
4 min read
607 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0420 exhaust system issue in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019). 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 exhaust system to cool completely before touching it.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Rough idling or stalling
  • •Loss of power during acceleration
  • •Unusual exhaust smells (sulfur or rotten egg odor)
  • •Increased emissions during emissions testing

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm P0420 and check for any related codes.
  2. 2Inspect the exhaust system visually for leaks or damage, particularly around the catalytic converter.
  3. 3Test the oxygen sensors (upstream and downstream) for proper operation using a multimeter.
  4. 4Check the fuel trim readings to assess if the engine is running too rich or too lean.
  5. 5Perform a catalytic converter efficiency test using a scan tool to analyze the oxygen sensor data.
  6. 6Inspect the wiring and connectors for the oxygen sensors for any signs of damage or corrosion.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is safely elevated on jack stands if needed.
  • Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shocks.

2. Inspect and Replace Oxygen Sensors

  • Tools Required: O2 sensor socket, wrench, multimeter
  • Remove the upstream oxygen sensor from the exhaust manifold:
    1. Disconnect the electrical connector from the sensor.
    2. Use the O2 sensor socket to remove the sensor from the exhaust manifold.
  • Test the new sensor before installation using a multimeter to ensure it functions properly.
  • Install the new upstream oxygen sensor and reconnect the electrical connector.
  • Repeat this process for the downstream oxygen sensor if necessary.

3. Inspect and Replace the Catalytic Converter (if necessary)

  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, exhaust hanger removal tool
  • Remove the exhaust pipe connected to the catalytic converter:
    1. Loosen and remove the bolts or nuts securing the exhaust pipe to the catalytic converter.
    2. Use the exhaust hanger removal tool to detach any hangers.
  • Remove the old catalytic converter from the vehicle.
  • Install the new catalytic converter by reversing the removal steps:
    1. Ensure all gaskets are in good condition; replace if necessary.
    2. Torque the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 30-40 lb-ft, but check specific guidelines).

4. Reset the Engine Control Module (ECM)

  • Reconnect the battery.
  • Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the P0420 code from the ECM.
  • Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to monitor for any new codes.

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
  • Exhaust hanger removal tool

Parts Required

  • Upstream oxygen sensor
  • Downstream oxygen sensor (if necessary)
  • Catalytic converter (if necessary)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0420
Component

Exhaust System

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. How to fix fuel pump failure Toyota Corolla

    Learn how to diagnose and fix fuel pump failure in a Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) with detailed steps and required tools.

    Component:fuel pump
    Symptoms
    • •Engine sputtering at high speeds
    • •Loss of power under stress
    • +{count} more
  2. how to diagnose EPS problems in my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix EPS problems in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instruct...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Steering wheel feels heavy or difficult to turn
    • •A warning light for EPS illuminates on the dashboard
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) engine stutter when accelerating

    Learn how to diagnose and fix engine stuttering during acceleration in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures ...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine stuttering or hesitation during acceleration
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) have a burning smell when driving

    Discover the causes of burning smell in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019). Follow our diagnostic steps and solutions for effective repairs.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Burning smell detected inside or outside the vehicle
    • •Smoke rising from the engine compartment
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) have a hard steering feel after 80k miles?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix hard steering issues in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair ...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Noticeable increase in steering effort at low speeds
    • •Steering wheel feels stiff or unresponsive
    • +{count} more
  6. how to check power steering fluid levels in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

    Learn how to check power steering fluid levels in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and diagnostic steps included.

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Difficulty in steering the vehicle
    • •Whining noise when turning the steering wheel
    • +{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