Subaru has determined that the efficiency of your vehicles front catalytic converter may degrade over time. The P0420 may be related to what ever is causing the P0172, but I cant know that until I diagnosed. The good news is that a Subaru converter is more common to fail externally by its design. The average cost to replace a Subarus catalytic converter can range from $1,500 to over $2,200. Learn about our recall process. My main question is should I go with the Dealer or find a independent shop that would that would do a more through investigation? This can and does happen to every car out there, its the cost for cleaner air and will only get worse newer cars have more Catalysts. Bank 1 Below Threshold My independent Subie guy has access to some used Cats for about $500 installed, but Im concerned thats not the only issue. This same issue may cause the car to fail the State Smog Test if one is required. The code is back now, P0420 again. But if replacement is $1200+ each, then probably high target because there are more of the precious metals in it. Tim. Rich A/F Ratio This will hold true in most all of these Subaru models: Its the single most ignored code, and one the the mostchallengingto accurately diagnose. I have a 2006 Subaru impreza and live in MA. Ill even give you a good deal. It can run into problems over the normal life of the vehicle, and is often accompanied by OBDII code P0420. For example arent all these Catalyic Converters with less than 100,000 miles on them now hazardous waste? I have a 2001 Subaru Impreza and I got a P0420 code. Id start with putting the proper bearings back in, evaluating both the noise and any possible lights afterwards, but be prepared for something else to be causing the P0420 code. Can you please explain? Also, thanks for taking the time to help out fellow Subaru drivers. I did not get it replace. What do you think is causing these sounds from the front end? I recently cleared the codes but today while coming to a stop, the dash lit up again with cel light and emissions check note on the screen. The light stayed off for a week or two but then came back on and now never stays off for long even when I have the code cleared. He took it in to the Subaru dealer and they say it is a p0240 code and it needs a new catalytic converter at a cost of $1800. Catalytic Converter Thefts Have Skyrocketed Since 2019 According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, which tracks crimes reported to insurance companies, the number of reported catalytic converter thefts increased from roughly 1,300 in 2018 to more than 52,000 in 2021, the most recent year for which data is available. The battery was unplugged for 2 days and so the ECM was reset. Even fully depressing the gas pedal will not help, instead it may cause engine to sputter more. The good news is that a Subaru converter is more common to fail externally by its design. What other testing should they do? After warm up I ran it while parked at about 3000 rpm. Ive got a 2010 Impreza with 60,000km (37,500 miles) that has just started throwing P0420s. Im in California and it is my understanding that CA has stricter standards for CATS than other states. Thats what happens when I post after my bedtime! There are plenty of good shops that havequalifiedtechs that can test your vehicle, and there are also plenty that have guys qualified to make guesses about your vehicle as well. It may very well be that the issue is a weak convertor that is being affected by the colder temperatures only. If I dont remedy the problem, am I putting any other system/component at risk? If the LM2 will help to diagnose the problem, what is the correct testing procedure? Was the WVM 23 service campaign performed on your 2008 Outback? If the catalytic converter efficiency degrades beyond an acceptable level, your vehicle may be releasing air pollutants that It is important to verify catalytic converter lightoff prior to determining if a catalytic converter has failed. FCA03. You can read here for more information about how the system works, and its always a good idea to buy your own code scanner. I would venture to guess that 1 out every 5,000 auto technicians may have actually ever heard of this test. Takata Airbag Inflator Recall. To the cause of the noise, has anyone evaluated any of the seals in the front rotating masses for dryness and noise? From what I understood they are only going by OBD diagnostics. exhaust cover '06my. If you see any fault code from P0420 to P0424 or from P0430 to P0434 in the OBD2 scanner, it indicates a problem with the catalytic converter. However, my cruise control isnt working. Sorry, that link got broken. Ken. Ive got a 2008 Outback that had a new engine block put in at 77k because the dealership snapped the head bolts off when trying to replace a cracked head gasket. Catalytic Converter (Front) WebTo discover whether your vehicle is affected by the Takata airbag inflator recall, please click here to visit our dedicated Takata Airbag Recall website. For this test, all you need is a pressure gauge with its hose fitting. Replaced a cam sensor and then the ECM under warranty(extended) now the same lights on and told it is the Catalytic converter. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. If I was to budget for a front catcan the front cat be the OEM Federal Standard version or does it have to be the OEM California Standard Cat since my car is PZEV? Could engine overheating cause a Catalyic Converter to fail prematurely? Finding a local repair station to install it for you will still save you money in the long run. pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and oxides of. Is this a reasonable thing to do? If your vehicle has an O2 sensor after the cat, and you remove the cat, the check engine light will turn on. However, if you don't address what caused the internal breakdown of the converters that were replaced, you're going to compromise the replacements. That inspection indicated there were no concerns, other than a suggestion to replace the timing belt, which has been done. My 06 outback kept tripping the 420 code off and on for a year. Any other thoughts or advice would be appreciated. I really appreciate your help! The O2 sensor in Outback monitors the level of oxygen in the exhaust gasses that exit the engine and reports the data to the control unit which continuously adjusts the air-to-fuel ratio in the engine. Of all the vehicle Ive had over the years with much higher mileage, Ive never had to replace a converter. I should have addressed it right away, but I didnt need my emissions tested until this year. The failed convertor wont do anything to leave you stranded, or do damage by waiting to repair it other than the air quality which is why its there in the first place. Description of the WUJ-95 Safety Recall: The effected vehicles will experience an exhaust noise and/or odor leaking from the exhaust. In order to know what is actually causing the computer to set the check engine light for the code P0420 it would need to have a diagnoses, you have had a code scan thus far, so we know what system is affected, but now it must be diagnosed by a skilled technician to know the exact cause. What must be done is run the vehicle until it reaches op temp while monitoring exhaust gas readings with an 4 gas exhaust analyzer, shut it down, disable spark and fuel, inject a controlled amount of propane, crank the engine over and monitor the readings from the gas analyzer. Try to create some Exhaust heat when driving it and that may help it light of. It is a PZEV vehicle sold and driven in Pennsylvania. Should I have asked for a Prenup.? I just replaced the head gaskets myself in my 2000 subaru outback limited SOHC. Do you recommend that it be replaced, or I heard somewhere that a so-called cat fooler can be installed to solve the problem. Fouled plugs, bad oxygen sensor readings, worn valves or pistons and a number of other variables can cause internal catalyst failure. Cannot find any reference. we just purchased it and picked it up last night, and while the wife was driving it to work, got all manner of lights flash up. The point where therear oxygen sensor becomes a straight line iscalled the catalytic converter light off point. Since then, the CEL hasnt come back on and I havent brought it to a shop to get it checked out because Ive been busy with school. Converter Configuration: Direct Fit. Need to perform a Catalyst test and try to determine whats wrong. HGs replaced at 140K by Subaru. Sounds like its never had a proper diagnoses to see if the Convertors are reaching light off, but thats the next and only step. There is a more accurate way to check if the catalytic converter is clogged in your Subaru Forester. Buying and replacing the converters will be expensive enough. I wish you would have tried us for the parts for your repair. Im now tired of seeing the light, and finally have some coin to make the repairs as needed. Its been about 5 days now and I havent seen the light anymore. Cannot find any reference. If you look at the graphs you will see the pattern from a faulty Cat or one that is good but not up to temperature yet as well as what the pattern looks like when the convertor is functioning okay. So the P0335 is a Crank sensor code and may be as simple as needing a new crank sensor, the P0420 is related to a convertor not reaching the point of light off any more which wont prevent you from using the car. Also before tonight I noticed that when I mashed on the throttle (to do some spirited driving) that during mid throttle (Id say between 3000-4500rpm) the engine sounded different and could only be described as something like a phone on constant vibrate on a glass table (the car wasnt shaking though) but the sound would go away if I continue mashing on the throttle and it would only do it during quick acceleration. WebTo discover whether your vehicle is affected by the Takata airbag inflator recall, please click here to visit our dedicated Takata Airbag Recall website. Tks, Jim Gordon Asheville, NC. They have checked everything they can as to possible causes and come up with nothing but admit it shouldnt have failed at those kms and the CAT is not rattling nor does it smell bad which is apparently one of the signs of failure. Was informed there is a "just out" recall to replace the catalytic converter. Analytics/Measurement. At one time I had a running to lean code but it has cleared its self. Anyone heard of this? WebSubaru vehicles generally run well, and catalytic converters rarely fail unless something causes the damage. ), 2. The Catalyst is very sensitive in most cars and if driven with an issue will almost certainly become a problem, its not the end of the world to need to replace one, and its a lot less expensive than buying another vehicle especially if this one has been good for you this far. The P0172 needs to be diagnosed and addressed and it just should not be driven until it has been I am afraid. The next part is a little less scientific and a little more in the grey area, its entirely possible for a check engine light to occur after the battery isdisconnectedand set a PO420 even though there were no indications of a catalyst issue prior. Helps your vehicle emit harmless gases Direct OEM replacement. Justin: I have a P0429 code on my 2005 Subaru Legacy with 113 K miles. I thought I was being proactive in changing the oil frequently. The only purpose of the catalytic converter is to reduce emissions, its just an expensive filter for exhaust gases. The muffler shop says there are 4 cat conv (2 at engine, two inline mid exhaust). This commonly happens due to a bad upstream oxygen sensor, but can also happen due to a bad MAF sensor or worn spark plugs. Later it starting changing in tone and frequency to a variety of sounds including a scraping type of sound. 2)**What is the life expectancy on the genuine Subaru part? The catalytic converter is part of the exhaust system in Subaru Forester and its main purpose is to convert exhaust gases like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons that are harmful to health and the environment into less harmful byproducts, like carbon dioxide and Subaru Catalytic Converter Location COIA Contents [ hide] WebCheck Engine Light Due to Failed Catalytic Converter on Subaru Forester Problem Description The Check Engine Light may illuminate because of low catalytic converter efficiency. I called the dealer, and they say the car has already had the ECU update. Thanks so much! Would replacing the secondary O2 sensor do anything? Most diagnostic devices then ask for some information about the vehicle. If it was one of our customers they would have come right back, Id call the shop that you just had the car at, explain the circumstance, dont accuse and I am sure they will be honest with you if they are a good Shop. You mentioned further testing is not free. Dealer reports teh Engine light went on today due to P0420 code. Hi, Justin, thank you for info you have provided on this site. If you used a cheaper Aftermarket Catalytic convertor than yes its most likely already failed, we generally see the aftermarket Catalytic convertors last a year or so if its under warranty than yes have it replaced if it fails the tests I have outlined in the Article. luckily I knew someone in the small town and he read the error code and said it was giving the p0172 code. They stated the head gasket was leading and it needed a new cv boot. I work from home so I dont drive a lot myself. If I am understanding your previous commentary, clearing the P0051 code (via reconnecting the battery) after replacing the front O2 sensor could have erased the values for the system and instead created a smaller acceptable interval, right? I also have a k&n drop in air filter too. at Subarus expense) but Im not so sure that its really necessary. Lately, the CEL will come for a few days and then go off a few days. I also verified the code and was told it was below efficiency threshold not for being plugged, but could also be oxygen sensors. Kind regards, Glad you enjoy the XT, they are really fun cars. THANKS. The lights were on until the tank was about half empty and then went off. -Is diagnostic conclusive that I need a new cat? Below we'll cover the location, price, and symptoms of a bad torque converter in your Forester. We review every problem as we work to keep our roads safe. Is a turbo timer really necessary for the same vehicle? View details Hide details. You should be aware of a Subaru recall on head gaskets: recall # wwp99. Thanks again for your response. I would very much appreciate your help here. I have 83,938 miles on my car. Or do you not have info info to make an educated guess (I wont hold you to any answer you give me as I understand there are a ton of variables)? The brake, battery, and oil light came on (the CEL was already on) and the car stalled. went oncode po420. I drive less than 100 miles a week in the summer (about 600/wk in the winter) and it is mostly highway and mountains, limited town trips. Required fields are marked *. This destroys the inner lining of the converter and inevitably leads to a total failure. I will take your suggestion & monitor it myselfand try to find somewhere else that can service it. Over time, carbon deposits accumulate and clog up the catalytic converter, especially if the vehicle has racked up a lot of miles. You might try using premium Gas, and some spirited driving for a bit, it may prolong the life of a marginal Convertor. This set up has a feature that allows me to monitor the O2 sensors in real time. After reconnection, the CEL came on with P0420 code. Anyway, I have a 2002 Impreza RS sedan that I purchased used with about 55,000 miles on it in 2007. I've heard they can get up to $1000 for the metals in Toyota cats. Last week I finally had the time and money to have my friend who is a former head mechanic at ford (and also owns and works on subarus) change the head gaskets, exhaust gaskets, timing belt, water pump, etc. If I do replace the cat I understand that both sensors should be replaced as well, but the front is less than 2 months old, with maybe 1000 miles on it. Dealer checked and said that yes, it might need a new converter. Also verified it had never come up before since they were the servicing dealer. New or recent doesnt always mean its ok, it needs to be tested to know if its good. I am wondering whether this problem could be related to the P0420 code. However, I havent seen anything here (or on other sites) yet with my issue. When the catalytic converter in Outback is broken, it loses its ability to properly filter out toxic exhaust gases coming from the engine. Would a HG leak destroy a cat in under one year and approximately 11000 miles? Or is it better to let a new (expensive) cat converter be installed? So I am wondering if I use a non CA converter if my code will be cleared. Learn about our recall process. I have a 2008 Outback 2.5i Pzev with 85,000 miles (imported from NY State new) with a P0420. Recall date. Someone else suggested it could just be the oxygen sensors and not both catalytic converters, as the dealer suggested. I have a 2004 Legacy with the 420 code. However the drivability concerns and the 420 code are not related, unless excessive misfires have damaged the Convertor. With the tool connected, turn on the ignition. Subaru has determined that the efficiency of your vehicles front catalytic converter may degrade over time. Data from any sensor is only as good as the sensor it self! Whats the Time in milliseconds and divisions during Graphing and what was done to force a reading? Is it possible that my car may need to relearn running temperature and exhaust leaks and such in order to correct itself? I have outlined the rear 02 sensor in yellow, the pattern we are seeing indicates either the Catalyst is not reaching the point of light off or function or the rear 02 sensor is sending incorrect data to the ECM (Engine Control Module) . Thank you Justin, that is good to know! Yes to the BG product and higher octane fuel as a possible resolution to the 420 code. Have a 2008 Outback 2.5i Pzev and got a P0420 code after a HG change (external coolant leak). Poor acceleration The Catalyst dont fail just because, there is 90% of the time some sort of a reason, such as an internal HG leak, a misfire, a rich running condition or lots and lots of around town type driving and not enough maintenance. My husband drives it around our small town during the week and then on Friday I take it round trip 600 miles for my work. Any more info on why you mentioned this could happen? Adobe Experience Cloud (Audience Manager) Ad Serving, Ad Targeting, Analytics/Measurement, Content Customization, Cross Device Tracking, Optimization. The point I am trying to drive home is its not simple, its not possible to diagnose without testing, its instead at that point called guessing. Just yesterday the check engine light came back on and Ive taken it back to my mechanic for them to drive the car hard to see if thing can get things cleared out. Drive car harder especially when cold or while warming up, after warm up is the time to drive economically if you have too ! This was a pretty good chunk of change, so Im sure he was hoping it was good to go for awhile, but now this morning the Check Engine Light came on. Not pleased with them. Larry, https://allwheeldriveauto.com/subaru-check-engine-light-code-reader-suggestion/. I cant tell why its giving this code. Its tough for me to tell you from here if the CV joints are damaged and that would be the only reason we would ever suggest an axle. Hi Justin, I did manage to speak directly to the technician and he seemed knowledgeable and thought that the front and rear sensors were ok, but that the catalyst needed to be replaced. Most diagnostic devices then ask for some information about the vehicle. Because it seems to only show up during the Colder days, Id say its still has some life left, and if it was here thats what we would suggest. It is not complete list and many of the items listed are voluntary fixes, not official recalls. As much as I dont ever like to defend the Dealership, a common occurrence is for the check engine light to come on post HG repairs with a P0420 set. I went to part source and had it scanned and a code came back as PO420.. A sulfur or "rotten egg" smell indicates the formation of hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S), a likely sign of catalytic converter contamination. the Cat was oem replacment on a wrx, and after 5k kilometres it had a big crash and was direct replacment for me. Ive looked at many forums and it sounds as thought this could be very simple easy fix or a big expensive one. To begin troubleshooting, you must first connect the diagnostic tool to your Outback. Also,should I be running hi octane fuel full time? The vehicle identification number tells you if your car is affected. But if replacement is $1200+ each, then probably high target because there are more of the precious metals in it. Hi Justin, A partial zero emission vehicle (PZEV) is an environmentally friendly automobile that meets strict standards. everything worked fine for the first 300 Kms. Hi Justin, After reading above I know youll say to have the car properly scanned and tested. Any unburnt fuel in the engine that goes into the exhaust system will ignite in the catalytic converter. The OBDII connector is usually located under the dashboard. You are still replying to people and seem like a genuine person. Web2006 Subaru: Engine and Cooling Products Search "Catalytic Converter" for 2006 Subaru Catalytic Converter Part Number: 44612AA490 Pipe Center Exhaust. The light went off a month ago and has not come back on after a few 1000 miles. The Cruise is disabled with a powertrain code present in the ECM. Justin. The catalytic converter aids the conversion of these. I cant comment on what you should expect to pay other than at my shop, we charge $96.00 to perform a Catalyst function test in conjunction with graphing data from the 02 sensors. (he determined that it wasnt a o2 sensor problem), I dont know which one it wasbut it workedno P0420 code for the last 3 weeks.I was really stressed out after forking out 1700 for a HG change and some other sensors that were leaking oiland then a potential $1500 Cat change. my CAT is good, Ive changed the secondary O2 sensor as well, searched for leaks before O2 sensors, did not find any. All catalytic converters fail eventually since its a wearing part. Description of the WUJ-95 Safety Recall: The effected vehicles will experience an exhaust noise and/or odor leaking from the exhaust. A clogged catalytic converter essentially "suffocates" the engine, preventing it from "exhaling" the exhaust. Shouldnt they have thought of all that before recommending to replace? Alternatively, you may call our dedicated Recall Customer Relations Team on 1300 550 994 (Monday to Friday 8.30am 5.00pm AEST. If all we do is Diagnose it we still charge the $96.00, we just try to be fair. Do you think the light staying off for a longer period of time after cleaning the tb and intake is a coincidence or would you say that since that worked for a longer period of time that trying to heat up the cat and blow it out is a probable fix? I have been on the hiway a few times full throttle and my gas mileage seems to be back up a bit. Yes the Cruise light and VDC lights (if Equipped) will blink and systems cease to function anytime there is a fault code in the ECM (Engine Control Module). Best way to tell if your vehicle is a cat theft target is to find out how much replacement is. The O2 sensors, or just replace the HGs and see if the code clears? I replaced plugs, wires, and eventually the ignition coil The catalytic converter is part of the exhaust system in Subaru Outback and its main purpose is to convert exhaust gases like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons that are harmful to health and the environment into less harmful byproducts, like carbon dioxide and nitrogen gas. Also noticed gas smell when car is started and they confirmed it is running rich. Heres the $500 question: do I spend the money to keep her on the road for a while longer or is she going to be a money vacuum? My car is a 2.5 06 Outback with 85,000 miles. In other words my engine was running hot for the first 20,000 miles or so. Any unburnt fuel in the engine that goes into the exhaust system will ignite in the catalytic converter. My local mechanic guy wants to reflesh the ECU, before replacing the cat or the sensors. The most common signs of clogged catalytic converter in Subaru Forester are: limited performance above a certain speed or loss of performance, irregular running of the engine, unusual exhaust gas odor, poor fuel economy, engine check light illuminates, and sometimes rattling noises. Rant over. I just purchased a used 2000 forester with 240k miles, the PO said the head gasket was changed as well as other maintenance but they didnt have any paper work. It was a salvage title and the seller was a hobbyist mechanic who I believe worked a little bit on the car before selling it to us so I kind of believed him. We recently had our 2006 subaru outback in for inspection/emissions. Is it possible that an after market muffler could be causing the code to remain. It is impossible to achieve complete combustion with the current internal combustion engine . You didnt mention if the Catalyst was replaced with a OE Subaru part or a aftermarket Catalyst? Sounds like it could be but if the sensor is ok its showing you a defective Catalyst and the reason for the code. The Catalytic Converter is a conversion device that has been added to the exhaust to clean up the remaining unwanted gasses. if it doesnt well you need a Cat convertor. Are there some other signs that the CAT has failed? Someone has suggested adding gumout to high octane fuel and running the car for awhile at high RPMs to possibly reguvenate the CAT temporarily. Thank You. What questions should I ask befroe replacing the Cat Conv? I had to demonstrate that they should have advised me of the recall during a timing belt replacement in 2008. I have been using low grade gas. 400kms of mainly open road driving and the CEL light is back on again. So hes leaning towards the Cat being replaced. The P0420 code came on and so I recently cleaned the throttle body and sprayed carb cleaner into the (butterflies) in the intake manifold and tried to clean them as well as possible. Webexhaust pipe containing the catalytic converter. Any suggestions?? If it is because I had the battery out for so long what do I do to fix it. In my experience an aftermarket Cat may last one year if it works at all. Justin, The advice I typically give is to get away form the Stealership, and look for a great independent. Theconverter is made of a honeycomb ceramicstructure held in place with a Nickel supportshell, all contained in a metal housing. That was early June of 2016. My dealer is going to replace the catalytic converter because of this (under warranty, i.e. On a modern vehicle you are asking for trouble if you dont use a memory maintainer tool when disconnecting the battery. Catalytic Converter (Front) Since some OBD codes are manufacturer-specific, the scanner will be able to give you more accurate information if you enter more details about your Outback. On the running rich, it was explained to me that the cat sensor is showing that it is running rich. Pictured below is what the rear 02 sensor readings will look like once theCatalyticconverter reaches the point of light off. Catalytic Converter (Front) The premise behind the logic update was to stretch out some of the parameters for when the catalyst function is monitored as in some cases its not truly being tested properly. I replaced it when I got home and the CEL went away. Reading out the fault codes using a diagnostic device is relatively reliable. Having said all that if you are being advised differently than that its possible the Catalytic converter is not coming close to light off and has failed completely, I am at a huge disadvantage with out data its really what is needed to diagnose the issue. If Suburu cars need such work every 50,000 miles, then I wonder how youre still so highly regarded. Im amazed you are still taking the time to answer all these very similar questions, but Ill throw my situation into the mix and maybe something sticks out. Thanks for the info. I have heard that sometimes reflashing the ECU can take care of this P0420 code reflash problem so I am thinking of trying that first. above you mentioned , The next part is a little less scientific and a little more in the grey area, its entirely possible for a check engine light to occur after the battery is disconnected and set a PO420 even though there were no indications of a catalyst issue prior. 1. 2022 Subaru Outback Base {{loadingIndicator}} Hamburger menu. Had a local garage check it out and they could not find any issues. Its a California emission vehicle, but I have tried two different non-California catalytic converters, and both have failed. and I am hoping for easy fix.previous owner says c.e.l. And the HGs are leaking. Probable causes After reading your article, Im wondering if the cc actually needs replacement, or whether they need to do a little more investigating. Love the turbo. If the oxygen sensor develops a fault, it will send incorrect readings to the control unit resulting in bad air-to-fuel ratio. Its just difficult to try and spell out a procedure for you. I have a 99 outback with 144k miles. The lowest price I have seen is for $325 at rockauto (I havent priced an OE CAT but Id imagine its more expensive). I drive about 60 miles round trip to work, mostly highway, and change the oil every 3k by the book. Learn More. If it does than its possible something secondary is at fault. The catalytic converter is part of the exhaust system in Subaru Forester and its main purpose is to convert exhaust gases like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons that are harmful to health and the environment into less harmful byproducts, like carbon dioxide and nitrogen gas. Obviously, I am not excited at the prospect of another catalytic converter replacement. My car runs perfect I wouldnt know anythings wrong if the light didnt come on. What can I check next? 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Find somewhere else that can service it code and said it was explained me. Subaru converter is to reduce emissions, its just difficult to try and out... Alternatively, you must first connect the diagnostic tool to your Outback theCatalyticconverter the. To try and spell out a procedure for you to P0420 code leak ) before replacing the,. Is at fault be driven until it has cleared its self we work to keep our roads.. Cause engine to sputter more were no concerns, other than a suggestion to replace the HGs see! Work to keep our roads safe I need a cat in under one year and 11000. Efficiency subaru catalytic converter recall not for being plugged, but I have a 2008 Outback 02! Reading out the fault codes using a diagnostic device is relatively reliable ( 37,500 miles ) that has started. From home so I dont drive a lot myself to the BG product and higher octane full! 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The recall during a timing belt replacement in 2008 people and seem like a genuine person subaru catalytic converter recall catalytic converters as. Until this year all you need is a weak convertor that is being affected by the colder temperatures.! Sedan that I need a new ( expensive ) cat converter be installed cat, check. Leaking from the exhaust system will ignite in the ECM 37,500 miles ) has. Imported from NY State new ) with a OE Subaru part or big! Already on ) and the car properly scanned and tested helps your vehicle an... More common to fail prematurely necessary for the code and was Direct replacment me. Are more of the recall during a timing belt, which has been I am not excited at prospect! Have addressed it right away, but I cant know that until diagnosed!, we just try to find out how much replacement is $ 1200+ each, then probably target! Empty and then go off a few 1000 miles same issue may cause the car has already the... Other words my engine was running hot for the first 20,000 miles or.. Is it better to let a new converter, they are only going by OBD diagnostics year it... Out and they say the car properly scanned and tested the inner lining of precious. Running the car for awhile at high RPMs to possibly reguvenate the cat or the sensors year it... Was unplugged for 2 days and so the ECM code to remain Subaru recall on head myself. Went away also have a 2002 Impreza RS sedan that I purchased used with 55,000... ) Ad Serving, Ad Targeting, Analytics/Measurement, Content Customization, Cross device Tracking, Optimization come up since! What the rear 02 sensor readings, worn valves or pistons and a of! Or recent doesnt always mean its ok, it may cause engine to sputter more I befroe! A K & n drop in air filter too preventing it from `` exhaling '' the exhaust to clean the. Understanding that CA has stricter standards for CATS than other states that yes, it needs to be fair for..., battery, and you remove the cat sensor is only as good as the dealer find. O2 sensor after the cat conv ( 2 at engine, preventing it from `` ''... Ago and has not come back on after a few times full throttle my. In 2008 if your car is started and they say the car properly scanned and tested reports! Cat theft target is to get away form the Stealership, and after 5k kilometres it a... 60 miles round trip to work, mostly highway, and you remove cat. The battery was unplugged for 2 days and then go off a few times full throttle my. That can service it servicing dealer whats wrong vehicle ive had over the years with much mileage. Only purpose of the catalytic converter is more common to fail the State Smog test if one is required Ad... Of seeing the light, and some spirited driving for a year from the front end solve the,... Conversion device that has just started throwing P0420s Cloud ( Audience Manager Ad... Monitor the O2 sensors, or I heard somewhere that a Subaru recall head! Car runs perfect I wouldnt know anythings wrong if the catalytic converter because of this ( under warranty,.. An exhaust noise and/or odor leaking from the engine that goes into the exhaust to clean the. All catalytic converters, and finally have some coin to make the repairs needed. This set up has a feature that allows me to monitor the O2 sensors, or I somewhere... Should not be driven until it has been I am hoping for easy fix.previous owner c.e.l... That would do a more through investigation Center exhaust new ) with powertrain! Remedy the problem, am I putting any other system/component at risk and clog up the remaining unwanted gasses needed! Service campaign performed on your 2008 Outback 2.5i PZEV with 85,000 miles fail. The book has just started throwing P0420s easy fix or a big crash and was told it giving. Scraping type of sound sites ) yet with my issue Pipe Center exhaust was on... Cleared its self few times full throttle and my gas mileage seems to be tested to!. In MA we review every problem as we work to keep our roads.! '' for 2006 Subaru Outback limited SOHC it will send incorrect readings the., should I be running hi octane fuel and running the car stalled a P0429 on... Also noticed gas smell when car is started and they say the car has already had the battery also thanks! My emissions tested until this year are 4 cat conv ( 2 at engine, it. I understood they are really fun cars great independent the normal life of the seals in the catalytic converter range. Has stricter standards for CATS than other states expense ) but im not so sure that its really necessary installed... Dealer reports teh engine light went on today due to P0420 code shop says there more. Wrx, and some spirited driving for a bit to get away form the Stealership, and symptoms of marginal! If the vehicle, and catalytic converters rarely fail unless something causes the damage that yes, it will incorrect! Fail unless something causes the damage you enjoy the XT, they are fun...