Catalytic converter

[saysjon12]

I have a 1999 SR5 w/ sport package. My check engine lite came on and the code was P0420. This code came up 2 times before. The first time is was the 02 sensor. I replaced it. The 2nd time, same code but I just had it turned off to see if it was a fluke. Now this time (same code) I'm told by the dealer that I need both catalytic converters ($2K just for parts). Has anyone else had this or similiar problems. Please advise.

[dieseltechtom]

i change them all the time a big problem with those
cars

[dieseltechtom]

should be under warranty

[saysjon12]

Originally Posted by dieseltechtom

should be under warranty

I have 85K on car.

[saysjon12]

Originally Posted by dieseltechtom

i change them all the time a big problem with those
cars

Are you purchasing genuine Toyota parts or aftermarket? What are you purchasing?

[saysjon12]

Originally Posted by saysjon12

Are you purchasing genuine Toyota parts or aftermarket? What are you purchasing?

What are you replacing?

[bkskimachine]

I'm experiencing the same problem. Dealer said both need to be replaced. Out of warranty too. 90K miles. My mechanic said that code could be the O2 sensors, cats or mass air flow.

Anyone know where to get those cats aftermarket to avoid the 2K in OEM charges.

[saysjon12]

I had 84K on my '99. the dealer picked up the parts..I paid $240.00 in labor. I had all my service done at the dealership. They told me it is very UNCOMMON that both go. I looked under the car. Only 5-6 bolts and 4 nut on the sensers. I would have done it myself if they would not have picked up the parts.

Check out the internet for parts. I have the toyota part #'s if you need them...write back. Best of luck. Johnc

[Brian R.]

Some 1999 Toyotas have a recall for this code and replacing the cat. converter.

Getting the code doesn't tell you if it is the converter or the HO2 sensor after the cat. converter that sends the code. I would test the HO2 sensor first before dealing with the cat. converters.

The resistance on the Sensor 2 HO2 sensor (after the cat converter) is 11 - 16 ohms cold or 23 - 32 ohms hot. If wrong, replace the sensor. Some people have luck cleaning it with a stiff brush.

[Tomsriv]

You can get high-flow cats from www.jegs.com that flow enough for a big V8. They are less than a hundred bucks because they are one-size-fits-all. Often times cats go bad because the engine is running rich or has some other problem. If you have never replaced the 02 sensor you should replace that too. If you are replacing cats all the time then their is obviously something wrong with the engine and not the cats.

Often times smog mechanics will replace the cat because it will make the car pass. Its a band-aid fix to make the car pass smog. Other tricks to passing the smog test include changing the oil before the test and running the car at high rpm to get them real hot before the test.

[bkskimachine]

Thanks for the information all. I fixed the problem the real expensive way. Bought an 04 4Runner...

Sweet ride and the headaches of my lemon are gone forever.

Moral of the story...don't buy anything made for or in California. Californian's screw everything up. We found out our 99 purchased in Colorado was California emissions, originally sold in California. This makes if impossible to replace the cats with anything but factory as aftermarket cats are not available yet.

More history, I had to have both 02 sensors replaced, the mass air flow sensor and an emissions control unit. These problems alone total about $3500 over 2 years, not very exciting.

[deji]

Originally Posted by dieseltechtom

should be under warranty

I have a 99 4runner with 75,000. My car came up with the CEL. Code P0420. Dealer said to change the 2 cat. converters (CA Model) @ a cost of $2300. Called Toyota Warranty service, and was told that the cost will be borne by toyota.(great news!). Will let you guys know the outcome next week.

Also for cheap Cat converters, call KansasCity 877-771-892. Both catalytic converters for $500.

[deji]

Originally Posted by deji

I have a 99 4runner with 75,000. My car came up with the CEL. Code P0420. Dealer said to change the 2 cat. converters (CA Model) @ a cost of $2300. Called Toyota Warranty service, and was told that the cost will be borne by toyota.(great news!). Will let you guys know the outcome next week.

Also for cheap Cat converters, call KansasCity 877-771-892. Both catalytic converters for $500.

Dealer changed both catalytic converters for $0.