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I have a 2000 Subaru Forester. I had a P0420 code come up ...

Sent to Car Experts August 23 09:11 PM

I have a 2000 Subaru Forester. I had a P0420 code come up at autozone. I've already checked the spark plugs and they are clean and properly gapped. I don't want to take it to a mechanic unless I abcolutely have to. Is there some way I can find out whether this is a malfunctioning O2 sensor or if I have ot replace the Catalytic converter? If I have to replace or fix one of these things, how do I do it?

 

Optional Information:
2000 Subaru Forester 4 Cylinder

Already Tried:
checking the spark plugs

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $9
Answer
August 23 9:15 PM (3 minutes and 30 seconds later)
         
REPLIEDCheck Mark

That would be a bad Catalytic converter.

The criteria for setting that code is so specific, it's about impossible to get a false code.

The rear O/2 sensor has to mirror the readings of the front sensor and that just can't happen by accident.



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Hammer Time -- L1 Master Technician -- 98% Positive Feedback on 2716 Car Accepts
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August 23 9:24 PM (9 minutes and 21 seconds later)
         
Reply to Hammer Time's Post: Is this something I can do myself? I have very little money and a strong fear of getting ripped off at a mechanic's because I am a woman. I'd also like to learn more about my car and how it works. How long can I drive around like this? I don't have time to take it to the mechanic for the next 4 days because I am pulling double shifts at my job.
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
August 23 9:28 PM (3 minutes and 38 seconds later)
         
REPLIEDCheck Mark

No, you won't be doing this one by yourself. It may requiire some cutting torch or welder use.

You can save some money by going to an exhaust shop like Midas instead of the dealer. If they can fit an universal aftermarket converter instead of the OEM part, it will be much cheaper. Even is it requires a direct fit, an aftermarket will still be available at lower cost.



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Hammer Time -- L1 Master Technician -- 98% Positive Feedback on 2716 Car Accepts
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August 23 9:46 PM (17 minutes and 47 seconds later)
         
Reply to Hammer Time's Post: Do you know if a universal cat will fit on my make & model? After it's fixed, will the mechanic reset the check engine light, or does it reset itself, like when you have a loose gas cap?
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
August 23 9:55 PM (9 minutes and 36 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark

They will have to examine it. It's just a matters of if there's enough space to weld a universall in.

They will have to clear the codes when they make the repair.



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Hammer Time -- L1 Master Technician -- 98% Positive Feedback on 2716 Car Accepts
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