FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/Corolla/E170 (2013-2019)/why does my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) have a check engine light on for P0420

why does my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) have a check engine light on for P0420

Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

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

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix P0420 catalytic converter issues in Toyota Corolla E170. 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 before handling components.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Decreased engine performance
  • •Poor fuel economy
  • •Unusual exhaust smells (possibly sulfur or rotten egg odor)
  • •Engine stalling or rough idling (in more severe cases)

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to confirm the P0420 code.
  2. 2Inspect the exhaust system for any visible leaks or damage.
  3. 3Check the condition of the oxygen sensors (pre-catalytic and post-catalytic).
  4. 4Measure the voltage output of the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors with a multimeter.
  5. 5Verify the catalytic converter's physical condition (no denting or clogs).
  6. 6Check for any other related trouble codes that may indicate underlying issues.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

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

2. Inspect and Replace Oxygen Sensors

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Locate the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors in the exhaust system.
    2. Use a socket wrench to carefully remove the oxygen sensors.
    3. Inspect the sensor tips for any signs of fouling or damage.
    4. Replace faulty sensors with new, compatible units. Torque to manufacturer specifications (typically around 30 ft-lbs).

Tools Required: Oxygen sensor socket, torque wrench, socket set

3. Inspect and Replace the Catalytic Converter

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Remove the exhaust pipes connected to the catalytic converter using a socket set.
    2. Detach the catalytic converter from the vehicle, taking care not to damage surrounding components.
    3. Inspect the old catalytic converter for any signs of clogging or physical damage.
    4. Install the new catalytic converter, ensuring proper alignment with the exhaust system.
    5. Reconnect the exhaust pipes and torque to manufacturer specifications (typically around 30-40 ft-lbs).

Tools Required: Socket set, exhaust hanger removal tool, torque wrench

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
  • Oxygen sensor socket
  • Torque wrench
  • Exhaust hanger removal tool
  • Multimeter

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. what does it mean if my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) shows a C-1441 code?

    C-1441

    Learn how to diagnose and fix C-1441 ABS issue in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair inst...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Traction control light illuminated
    • +{count} more
  2. how to fix P0420 code on my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

    P0420

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0420 catalytic converter issues in Toyota Corolla E170. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instru...

    Component:Exhaust System
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Decreased fuel efficiency
    • +{count} more
  3. why is my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) pulling to one side while driving

    Learn how to diagnose and fix pulling issues in Toyota Corolla E170. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Vehicle pulls to the left or right while driving straight
    • •Uneven tire wear observed on front tires
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) lose steering assist intermittently?

    Discover how to diagnose and fix intermittent loss of steering assist in the 2013-2019 Toyota Corolla E170. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedu...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Steering wheel becomes heavy and difficult to turn
    • •Intermittent warning light on the dashboard
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) feel unstable at high speeds?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix high-speed instability in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and solut...

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Vibration in the steering wheel at high speeds
    • •Vehicle feels loose or wobbly during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  6. why does my Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019) make a grinding noise when turning?

    Learn to diagnose and fix grinding noise when turning in Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostics, and repair in...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Grinding noise when turning the steering wheel
    • •Vibration felt through 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