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

how to fix the catalytic converter issue in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

Severity: highDifficulty: mediumError Code: P04202-4 hours
3 min read
597 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 catalytic converter issues 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

  • ⚠Allow the exhaust system to cool before starting work
  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Increased exhaust emissions
  • •Poor acceleration or loss of power
  • •Unusual noises from the exhaust system (e.g., rattling)
  • •Decreased fuel economy
  • •Failed emissions test

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to identify specific catalytic converter-related codes (e.g., P0420)
  2. 2Inspect the exhaust system visually for signs of damage or leaks
  3. 3Check for proper exhaust flow by measuring back pressure using a pressure gauge
  4. 4Inspect the oxygen sensors for proper operation and ensure they are not faulty
  5. 5Verify that the engine is running efficiently by checking fuel trims and conducting a smoke test for leaks

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather all necessary tools and parts.
  • Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
  • Disconnect the battery to ensure safety during the repair.

Tools Required:

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Exhaust back pressure gauge
  • Jack and jack stands

2. Remove the Old Catalytic Converter

  1. Lift the Vehicle:

    • Use a jack to raise the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
  2. Locate the Catalytic Converter:

    • Identify the location of the catalytic converter in the exhaust system.
  3. Unbolt the Catalytic Converter:

    • Use the socket set to remove the bolts securing the catalytic converter to the exhaust manifold and the exhaust pipe. Take care not to damage surrounding components.
  4. Remove the Catalytic Converter:

    • Carefully pull the catalytic converter out of its mounting brackets and remove it from the vehicle.

3. Install the New Catalytic Converter

  1. Position the New Catalytic Converter:

    • Align the new catalytic converter in place, ensuring it fits correctly into the exhaust system.
  2. Secure the Catalytic Converter:

    • Hand-tighten the bolts to the exhaust manifold and the exhaust pipe. Follow with a torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer’s specified torque values (typically around 30-40 ft-lbs, but check the specific service manual).
  3. Reconnect the Oxygen Sensors:

    • If applicable, reinstall the oxygen sensors and ensure they are securely connected.

4. Reconnect Battery and Test

  1. Reconnect the Battery:

    • Reconnect the negative battery terminal and ensure it is tight.
  2. Start the Vehicle:

    • Start the engine and check for any exhaust leaks around the new catalytic converter.
  3. Scan for Error Codes:

    • Use the OBD-II scanner to clear any existing codes and verify that no new codes appear after starting the vehicle.

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
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Exhaust back pressure gauge
  • Jack and jack stands

Parts Required

  • New catalytic converter
  • New gaskets (if needed)
  • New oxygen sensor (if applicable)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0420
Component

Exhaust System

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to fix steering problems in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) at home?

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

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Difficulty in turning the steering wheel
    • •Noise or grinding sounds when steering
    • +{count} more
  2. Battery not charging Toyota Corolla E170

    Learn how to diagnose and fix battery charging issues in Toyota Corolla E170 models. Follow these steps to ensure your vehicle's charging system is fu...

    Component:charging system
    Symptoms
    • •Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Dimming headlights or interior lights
    • +{count} more
  3. why is my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) making a hissing noise

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

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Hissing noise when the engine is running
    • •Noise changes with engine speed (increases as RPMs rise)
    • +{count} more
  4. how do I fix a stiff steering wheel on my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a stiff steering wheel on your 2013-2019 Toyota Corolla E170. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and re...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Steering wheel requires excessive force to turn
    • •Acknowledged resistance when steering at low speeds
    • +{count} more
  5. what should I check if my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) has a warning light for power steering?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the power steering warning light issue in a 2013-2019 Toyota Corolla E170. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Power steering warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Difficulty steering, especially at low speeds
    • +{count} more
  6. how to align the steering on Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)?

    Learn how to align the steering on a 2013-2019 Toyota Corolla E170. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Vehicle pulls to the left or right when driving straight
    • •Steering wheel is off-center when the vehicle is moving straight
    • +{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