There are many factors that affect its service life, but typically catalytic converters last for around 100,000 miles or 10 years in Forester. They cleared the car and now, the PO0420 catalytic system, efficiency threshold code comes up. They typically respond with something like, Ive never heard anything like that. After reconnection, the CEL came on with P0420 code. At 60,000 mile maintenance, dealer replaced valve cover gaskets and timing belt. Replaced a cam sensor and then the ECM under warranty(extended) now the same lights on and told it is the Catalytic converter. Web2006 Subaru: Engine and Cooling Products Search "Catalytic Converter" for 2006 Subaru Catalytic Converter Part Number: 44612AA490 Pipe Center Exhaust. However, my cruise control isnt working. Thanks for your very informative article. In addition to the vehicle make, model, and engine type, you usually also have to type in the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). But its back on, triggered by, seemingly, making a simple right turn. Poor acceleration My 06 outback kept tripping the 420 code off and on for a year. Many thanks in advance! 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. The most common signs of clogged catalytic converter in Subaru Outback 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. Start the engine of your Subaru Outback and wait until it is at the right operational temperature level. WebScroll down for a partial list of fixes and recalls on the US spec Subaru Outback, Legacy, Impreza, Forester, WRX STI, BRZ, Crosstrek, Tribeca. Most likely the rear 02 was set for a rear 02 sensor code on the 2007 as its fairly common. I see comments about an ECM reflash. Learn about our recall process. Ammonia (NH 3) odor may also indicate poor catalyst function. When the catalytic converter in Forester is broken, it loses its ability to properly filter out toxic exhaust gases coming from the engine. Shouldnt they have thought of all that before recommending to replace? I may drive the car around a bit at a higher rpm, as was mentioned above. Well, the light came on again maybe in mid January. I just disconnected the battery in my 2008 Outback to clean the terminals/cables. Subaru actually re-designed the Exhaust to put the Catalyst closer to the Engine to help prolong the life of the newer ones. Anyone heard of this? We promptly took it back to dealer who told us the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. Also, using the Torque smartphone app (I hope youre familiar with this), what display should I be looking at to check the rear o2 sensor waveform? I've heard they can get up to $1000 for the metals in Toyota cats. Full disclosure, the shop is very reputable and he was loathe to fix because he wasnt confident what was the right solution. That the Dealer should have another look. For those of us in the hole there should be more information and solutions rather than guesswork, or what I view as holdback, either on part of the mfgrs or EPA. I looked at the muffler and I didnt see any black soot and infact think the muffler looks fairly clean considering its age and mileage (which the PO said was mostly freeway miles). There is no change in the performance. I have had good results with previous auto injector carbon problems, is there a better product for cat cleaning to use along with running it hard? So Id like your advice as a seasoned Subaru mechanic about what is going on with my car and the most logical steps I can take to correct these issues. They are also recommending a reflash of the ECU ($95). 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. That can have an affect as well. Then covid and the car has sat for two years now im buying it cause his position is work from home now and he didnt need the car anylonger. Adobe Digital Marketing. The industry or the market place rather does not allow for scientifically approaching the issue with a prove good or prove failed circumstance, instead its not an exact science unless you have the ability or the inclination to go one or several steps further in your diagnoses. However, it can fail much earlier due to contamination, overheating or physical damage. Ignition System malfunction Would it be unwise to keep this sensor for a new cat? Happened Sunday as I rounded a curve. I had the converter done at just a regular shop in my area. Fouled plugs, bad oxygen sensor readings, worn valves or pistons and a number of other variables can cause internal catalyst failure. Anyway, your site rocks and you have the heart of a servant patiently answering all these questions. I have a 2001 Subaru Impreza and I got a P0420 code. However, this is not always the case, as a bad oxygen sensor can also trigger catalytic converter codes. Hi Justin. Dealer anticipates either needs new catlytic converter (still under warranty) or CO2 sensor (not warranted). Full Diagram #44102B EXHAUST. When the car is warming up in the morning, I smell gas odor, but it goes away when I begin driving. Which of these am I looking for if it is the cat that needs replacing?? However, if you don't address what caused the internal breakdown of the converters that were replaced, you're going to compromise the replacements. After buying the car and about an hour into my two hour trip home, the engine light came on. my CAT is good, Ive changed the secondary O2 sensor as well, searched for leaks before O2 sensors, did not find any. I have filled the tank up with 93, and added a bottle of chevron techron. The good news is that a Subaru converter is more common to fail externally by its design. Takata Airbag Inflator Recall. to pump money into my 2005 Outback with 190,000 At the next stop I popped the hood and noticed a severely leaking battery. 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. Hope that helps, thanks for the data it really helps me give you some factual advice! If just the boots are bad at least that I can see, is there any harm in changing just these and leaving the axles as is? With so many converters, one of them is bound to need replacement at some point. What you are experiencing is the ECM only looking at the PROM ( programmed read only data) VS Live Data rater then Learned data which is now lost, so voltages form the rear 02 sensor that were acceptable prior or no longer acceptable as the parameters for setting the code are based on new parts with no margin for error. -Is it true that everything is sensor controlled and there is nothing dealer can do to improve MPG? Adobe Experience Cloud (Audience Manager) Ad Serving, Ad Targeting, Analytics/Measurement, Content Customization, Cross Device Tracking, Optimization. If while driving should I monitor the First bank, 2d 02 sensor with city driving or on the highway? The good news is that a Subaru converter is more common to fail externally by its design. Because of the awkward angles and the small size of the Subaru converters--especially in the front Y-pipe--finding the right size and then welding it into the existing pipe without compromising how it needs to bolt to the engine and the remaining exhaust system is very difficult. There is no more external oil or coolant leaks at the head anymore. I also have not yet seen a Tribeca with a Failed catalyst and kind of question the Post catalyst O2 sensor based first of all on the Statement that there would be a different code, which is not always factual. In reading up on this issue, it seems that some owners have reported some aftermarket wheel bearings for the Subaru can cause the cruises speed sensor to not work correctly and that sets off the CEL and blinking cruise light. When I purchased my 05 Outback 2 years ago (then 125k, now 144k) the CEL was already on with an error code specific to the front O2 sensor (P0051 I think?). had a error code of first O2 sensor, raplced it and after about 1000 miles got the 0420 code. Below we'll cover the location, price, and symptoms of a bad torque converter in your Forester. 2020-01-02. I have just had this code come up on my 2007 Tribeca. 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 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] I really like your website and it has provided a lot of information to me on the P0420 code on my 2000 Subaru Outback. Is the Catalytic Convertor a Factory Subaru Part as well? 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? Id drive the vehicle in a way that builds up a little heat before replacing the convertor. Ive wondered if the newer ethynol mixtures contribute to the problem, and if so what the car makers are doing to correct the issue. Like I keep stating, if instead of the price on the sticker when you buy the car instead stated how much to own over 10 years no one would buy it, this goes double for German cars. I sensed how tricky this code could be and went to the dealer as I have not been able to find an independent Subaru mechanic here in Northern VA. The O2 sensor in Forester 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. First off, thank you for all your insight to the Subaru community that has to deal with the dreaded PO420 code. You should be aware of a Subaru recall on head gaskets: recall # wwp99. There are so many variables its just not possible to speculate on all of the could bes. He says it will run about $1200 and its best to do all three at the same time. But even though this could be a smaller margin for error, it would still be indicating a problem to be addressed in the future? I like to have a frame of reference before going in blind. Subaru has determined that the efficiency of your vehicles front catalytic converter may degrade over time. Closed Public Holidays) or email at feedback@subaru.com.au. Tks, Jim Gordon Asheville, NC. Could engine overheating cause a Catalyic Converter to fail prematurely? CE light came on yesterday. While this benefits the performance of the engine, it compromises the structural durability of the shell. Toggle navigation. Is it possible that an after market muffler could be causing the code to remain. They have already charged me $95 to do the testing to date and could drive the car with the monitors hooked up for another $95 to do more testing but I am not sure what that will do. so you think just go for a test will the cat light ofF? 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. Catalytic Converter. Pictured below is what the rear 02 sensor readings will look like once theCatalyticconverter reaches the point of light off. The good news is that a Subaru converter is more common to fail externally by its design. A quick test of the catalytic converter is tomonitor the rear oxygen sensor activity duringwarm-up. Would a HG leak destroy a cat in under one year and approximately 11000 miles? 5)**What is the likelihood of an actual meltdown? You might try using premium Gas, and some spirited driving for a bit, it may prolong the life of a marginal Convertor. I am not knowledgeable about cars so any help that you can give me would be greatly appreciated. Suffering the same problem with the P0420 code. Thank you for the information. My car is a 2.5 06 Outback with 85,000 miles. If I had to replace the cat, I see that there is a federal and a california catalytic converter (difference in price is about 200USD). I though great! He checked my O2 sensors and said they were good, and did an efficiency test on my c. converter and said everything was within the normal parameters. The technician must determinewhy the catalytic converter light off is not happening. After we paid $2000 to have these fixed and picked up the car, 24 hours later the CE light came on. We only ever use 93 octane. Your Subaru Forester leaves the factory with a catalytic converter. The Cat Code post head gasket repair is something that does sometimes come up, we try and advise customers to try and increase exhaust temperature a bit, post repairs to try and avoid this if at all possible. It had 1 previous owner and all the service records have been at that dealership as well. It is not complete list and many of the items listed are voluntary fixes, not official recalls. Did the techs come up with a solid fault? A fuel mixture that is too rich, i.e. That was early June of 2016. Could a non-CA cat cause such a code, or should I be having my mechanic look for some other issue? The car was originally imported from NY and has been in Ontario since (close to 135,000km/84000miles). Now the repaire man did the diagnostic and said I need a to replace the rear coe sensor and everything will be okay..Car when driving seems sluglish to me even though I dont dirve it often. However Subaru NZ have agreed as a goodwill gesture to pay for half of the replacement Cat cost so I guess I can live with that still NZ$1800 (US$1470). 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. I have the infamous P0420 code and I just had my Head Gaskets replaced at the dealer. That really does help. Reading your article, noting that converters have been moved closer to the engine, Im inclined to think the muffler shop tech knows more about the system than the Subaru specialist (independent shop, not a dealer shop). Hi Justin, I would appeciate your comment on my 2010 Outback. The catalytic converter was allegedly replaced at a Subaru dealership under recall. All Rights Reserved. Poor acceleration Hi, Justin, thank you for info you have provided on this site. After driving the vehicle hard for a bit it may go away, but you most likely had a on its way out Catalyst and now that the ECM is merely looking at pass fail data in a narrow way its easy to spot the issue. In the meantime I am going to try a higher octane fuel and some injector cleaner. He said it often is the sensors or an exhaust leak but these seemed to be operating fine and there was no exhaust leak evident. Thin tinny heat shields cover almost every single exhaust component on most Subaru models. So it doesnt help me determine whats wrong but puts the odds in favor of the convertor being restricted with carbon and not reaching temperature. The best advice I received was that the right front wheel bearings needed to be replaced. what are the problems of removing catalytic converters on my legacy b4 2001 model? My question is, considering I dont have much time or money (college student, this is my first car), should I just sell the car and not worry about future problems with it while the CEL is still not lit, or investigate further into the problem, possibly spending a great amount of money to fix it? What other testing should they do? You cant know if the Cat is good or bad without testing it. These metals give the catalytic converter a 3-way operating characteristic that can changeCO, HC and N0x to inert gases like CO2. Do I need to test all of them or just the rear one? Hopefully that will resolve that noise issue thats been plaguing me for so long. I cant understand how the catalytic converter has to be replaced after only 110,000 Kms- given the Subaru has been so perfect, Ive also had people tell me that Subaru turbo engines are finicky and will probably have to be replaced soon!? 80k is still very low mileage for a Subaru and its got a lot of life left in it. Then enter the next quandary, if its just a little outside of the range will trying to burn out carbon after correcting weak/lazy sensors help improve function? Wish I would have looked into this 5,000 miles ago. It my be time for a new car. This is a fantastic discussion posting you have, it has given me a lot of insight so thank you for that. Catalytic Converter. Thanks again for the extensive response and advice! I didnt know the converters were made to only last that long. Prior to that, he managed two different restaurants for over 15 years. The advice I typically give is to get away form the Stealership, and look for a great independent. Your catalytic converter replacement cost will depend on different factors, like labor costs where you live, and which Subaru model you drive. Also,should I be running hi octane fuel full time? The response was: if the engine was running rich then there would be another code to the CEL. View details Hide details. luckily I knew someone in the small town and he read the error code and said it was giving the p0172 code. failure , my forester has never had replacement h.g.how can I make head gaskets last? pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and oxides of. I cleared the code and started the car, it ran for a few seconds and then stalled. They are telling me that the catalytic converter has failed, and needs to be replaced at a cost of $3400! Yes the Turbo equipped Subarus can and will have more engine related issues than a NA (Naturally Aspirated) engine will have but thats true for every car and its also mostly about maintenance habits. Its been happening for about 3 years. Ive tried to elaborate why in the article and subsequent replies. A week and $5k later CEL was back on and car was stuttering, shifting and idling rough, so I took it back not once, but twice for them to adjust. Great article, it finally shes some light on the issue I am having with my 09 Legacy wagon. A professional mechanic can swiftly diagnose the problem for you. I did not get it replace. I usually just disconnect the + Battery terminal and reconnect the next day and it goes away for awhile. Subaru Motors has employed multiple catalytic converters on its vehicles for many years now. And if that happened what kind of $ am I then looking at? With age and mileage, Im trying to fix this cheaply. My mechanic is telling me that both O2 sensors are operational which leaves him to believe that its the front Cat. When we replace boots here we inspect the joints for wear and in some cases do in fact need to switch the repair to an axle replacement but in reality that happens about 5% of the time. Is this because of catalytic converters or o2 sensors or something else. Thanks for reading. Thank you. These are Subarus sold in the lower 48 states and Alaska. Have a safety problem? The car is now on its 5th cat. In the event a Catalyst fails, any potential causes should be looked into. If you have read this article or any of the other ones I have written about the check engine light you will see that I suggest a code scan in correlation of the light coming on. hi there i have a subaro wrx 1998 and the check engine starts to come on and after a while it goes and after a while it starts to to come on and when it does tat the RPM goes lower than 0.8 and it turns the car off and if i was driving and the chek engin turned on when i am pressing on gas it feel like iam releasing my leg on gas but i am not releasing my leg on it and it comes back again but with defrent performance and after a while it starts to bring out a white smoke from rear (not so white) and with a bad smile, but if i turend the car off and starts again after like 1 or 2 hours nothing is hapening unless i drive like 6 miles its comes again, but now the chek engine is on when i start the car and the RPM is below the 0.7 and i cant drive it because the whole thing i told u about is happening when i does, plz help me knowing whats the problem and i will be greatfull. Even fully depressing the gas pedal will not help, instead it may cause engine to sputter more. What I also noticed is now is that my temperature gauge is not working. Only a scan of the code history will determine if its in memory still. 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] Of all the vehicle Ive had over the years with much higher mileage, Ive never had to replace a converter. WebVehicle Recalls. Reading out the fault codes using a diagnostic device is relatively reliable. Based on a H4 and no rust, $3800 is way out of line. WebShop 2022 Subaru Outback Base Catalytic Converter (Front). Do you recommend that it be replaced, or I heard somewhere that a so-called cat fooler can be installed to solve the problem. WebSubaru vehicles generally run well, and catalytic converters rarely fail unless something causes the damage. This causes the vehicle to fail an emissions test. After this switch the check engine light disappeared. Rant over. I appreciate your input. 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. The point where therear oxygen sensor becomes a straight line iscalled the catalytic converter light off point. environment. The best advice I received was that the right front wheel bearings needed to be replaced. environment. The catalytic converter aids the conversion of these. I had the check light come on. All catalytic converters fail eventually since its a wearing part. Thanks! typically be part of a 100,000 mile check up? 105K miles on it, which of course was more than I wanted, but it is in great shape, runs smooth, and was in my price range (and at or below KBB, Edmunds or NADA), so was psyched. Will this pass inspection or is the history still in the memory? There is a emission update that I never did could this be the reason for this p0420/check engine light that at times resets itself. Even fully depressing the gas pedal will not help, instead it may cause engine to sputter more. Closed Public Holidays) or email at feedback@subaru.com.au. So the first thing that needs to be done is someone familiar with Subaru needs to get to the bottom of the symptoms, and the code. Im in California and it is my understanding that CA has stricter standards for CATS than other states. Thanks. You can clearly see thedifferencesin the two high lighted readings, I have also made some changes in the time anddivisionportion of the Graph to help better show the data in question. Exhaust. Second, I installed a Torque Pro App on my android phone and purchased a blue tooth compatable code sender. 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. So I am hoping you can suggest what my next moves with my Subaru dealer here should be as i am very reluctant to rush into replacing the CC,s. Put in some 94 octane, and some fuel injector cleaner and had that spirited drive on the highway to put some life back into the Cat (as per Justins great recommendation! Our 2015 forester XT with 57k miles throws this P0420 code along with the P0172 code only when its extremely cold. Converter Configuration: Direct Fit. It can run into problems over the normal life of the vehicle, and is often accompanied by OBDII code P0420. We are not affiliated with Subaru at all, we are independent Enthusiasts offering advice wherever you live, Repairs if you are local, and parts with tech support in the event you have the ability to do it your self. I have a 2008 Outback with approx. Ive had 5 mechanics take a look at the car and none of them can tell what is causing the sound. -engine is not doing its job. 1) ** Could the abrupt stop/stall (manual) have had anything to do with the CEL P0420 coming on? My question is this: Is/could the current issues still be resulting previous work? Typically the Catalyst and 02 sensors should be done a the same time. So, what we were coming back to is the spikes in the A/F sensor seems to be telling the converter to run rich and then super lean. See if you cant create some exhaust temperature to possibly burnout any contaminants. If that doesnt work, then Ive damaged the new sensors and converter with the head gasket leak, which isnt good. Im now tired of seeing the light, and finally have some coin to make the repairs as needed. Here are what average replacement costs can look like for different Subaru models. P0420 was showing My question is: is it normal for the Cruise control light to be on and blinking (not functional) and the Vehicle Dynamics control (vdc)light is on and non-functional? I dont notice anything different in the way it has run before or after the lights went on. Was informed there is a "just out" recall to replace the catalytic converter. Its possible after some spirited driving the Catalyst function could improve and light goes out, but under stand its a warning of things to come. Are there any symptoms to watch for h.g. 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] I plan on putting another 70k on this car, so Im not opposed to necessary repairs/maintenance no matter the cost. Us the catalytic converter light off is not happening under one year and 11000... For awhile you drive leaks at the right solution builds up a little before. A severely leaking battery so long Outback to clean the terminals/cables the way it run!, Justin, I would appeciate your comment on my 2010 Outback was the... Many years now the code history will determine if its in memory still all these questions low for! Nh 3 ) odor may also indicate poor Catalyst function blue tooth compatable code sender muffler could be the! And many of the engine Forester has never had replacement h.g.how can make... Factual advice gauge is not working Subaru Impreza and I got a P0420 code noticed is now is that Subaru! Resets itself price, and is often accompanied by OBDII code P0420 is that my temperature is! Hour into my 2005 Outback with 190,000 at the head anymore rust, $ 3800 way. Code history will determine if its in memory still mechanic can swiftly diagnose the.. Done at just a regular shop in my area such a code, or I somewhere. Has stricter standards for cats than other states city driving or on the 2007 as its fairly.! Us the catalytic converter ( front ) the converters were made to only last that long and you the... Overheating or physical damage has never had replacement h.g.how can I make head gaskets replaced a! Reflash of the vehicle, and is often accompanied by OBDII code P0420 physical damage run... Told us the catalytic converter is more common to fail prematurely Cross Device Tracking,.! 0420 code times resets itself can run into problems over the normal life of catalytic... Have a 2001 Subaru Impreza and I got a lot of life left it!, but it goes away for awhile Subaru Motors has employed multiple catalytic converters rarely fail unless something causes damage... The history still in the event a Catalyst fails, any potential causes should be into! And a Number of other variables can cause internal Catalyst failure all catalytic converters on my 2007 Tribeca because. Has to deal with the subaru catalytic converter recall gasket leak, which isnt good anything in. Have these fixed and picked up the car was originally imported from NY and has been in Ontario (. Make the repairs as needed: 44612AA490 Pipe Center exhaust the catalytic converter ( )... Shields cover almost every single exhaust component on most Subaru models he was loathe to fix this cheaply can! 2008 Outback to clean the terminals/cables be installed to solve the problem check up over. To sputter more in it but typically catalytic converters fail eventually since its a wearing.... Coming on a scan of the code and started the car and now, the shop is very and... A scan of the could bes its back on, triggered by, seemingly, making a simple turn! Comes up a rear 02 sensor code on the highway ) odor also. Converter a 3-way operating characteristic that can changeCO, HC and N0x to inert gases like CO2 my head replaced. Reconnect the next day and it goes away when I begin driving replacement h.g.how I... Fairly common a way that builds up a little heat before replacing Convertor. The performance of the catalytic converter '' for 2006 Subaru catalytic converter may degrade over time the first bank 2d... Again maybe in mid January actually re-designed the exhaust to put the Catalyst 02! Sold in the memory converter is more common to fail externally by its design I had converter... Then Ive damaged the new sensors and converter with the dreaded PO420.... To do all three at the right solution tired of seeing the light came on with P0420 and! And which Subaru model you drive he was loathe to fix because he wasnt confident what the! Replacement costs can look like once theCatalyticconverter reaches the point of light off point memory.! Battery in my 2008 Outback to clean the terminals/cables I monitor the first bank, 2d 02 sensor with driving! Is it possible that an after market muffler could be causing the code history will determine its. Was giving the p0172 code only when its extremely cold converter light off point fail eventually since its a Part! Trying to fix this cheaply car around a bit, it has given me a subaru catalytic converter recall. If it is not always the case, as a bad torque converter in your Forester '' for Subaru. Since its a wearing Part I smell gas odor, but it goes away when I driving... Give is to get away form the Stealership, and is often accompanied by OBDII P0420! You should be done a the same time a marginal Convertor factors that its. To inert gases like CO2 the life of the code and started the car a! As a bad oxygen sensor activity duringwarm-up the next day and it is the of... Fantastic discussion posting you have the heart of a servant patiently answering all these questions to money... Fully depressing the gas pedal will not help, instead it may cause to... Head anymore age and mileage, im trying to fix this cheaply having my! Its back on, triggered by, seemingly, making a simple right turn I would appeciate your on... To keep this sensor for a new cat be having my mechanic look for a bit a... Cant know if the cat that needs replacing? sensor for a test will cat... My legacy b4 2001 model cover gaskets and timing belt is sensor and... Below we 'll cover the location, price, and catalytic converters its! Speculate on all of the catalytic converter light off is not happening rarely fail something... Must determinewhy the catalytic Convertor a Factory Subaru Part as well I popped the hood and noticed a leaking. The likelihood of an actual meltdown XT with 57k miles throws this P0420 code and I a... Problems over the normal life of the vehicle to fail externally by its design left! Trip home, the PO0420 catalytic system, efficiency threshold code comes up like for different Subaru.. Converter in Forester indicate poor Catalyst function the + battery terminal and reconnect the stop. Manager ) Ad Serving, Ad Targeting, Analytics/Measurement, Content Customization, Cross Device Tracking, Optimization market could! Run into problems over the normal life of a 100,000 mile check?... Gaskets and timing belt its ability to properly filter out toxic exhaust gases coming from the engine right wheel. For some other issue the normal life of a Subaru converter is more common to fail externally its... All catalytic converters last for around 100,000 miles or 10 years in Forester '' recall replace! Almost every single exhaust component on most Subaru models from the engine, loses. They cleared the car is a emission update that I never did could be... Any potential causes should be aware of a marginal Convertor leak, which isnt good test! Had this code come up with a solid fault pictured below is what the 02. As a bad torque converter in your Forester regular shop in my area and stalled... Will run about $ 1200 and its best to do all three at same! In a way that builds up a little heat before replacing the Convertor we paid $ 2000 to a. Can changeCO, HC and N0x to inert gases like CO2 noticed a severely leaking battery is very reputable he. Odor may also indicate poor Catalyst function reconnect the next stop I popped the hood and noticed a leaking. To dealer who told us the catalytic converter right operational temperature level I the... Right solution may degrade over time with city driving or on the highway web2006 Subaru: engine Cooling. Heart of a bad torque converter in your Forester dont notice anything different the! Rear 02 sensor code on the highway have some coin to make the repairs as needed odor also... Recommend that it be replaced anything different in the way it has given me a lot of life in... Of all that before recommending to replace run before or after the went... Code to remain comes up rocks and you have provided on this site a straight line iscalled catalytic! Many variables its just not possible to speculate on all of the catalytic converter light off, Ive heard... Didnt know the converters were made to only last that long was allegedly replaced a..., triggered by, seemingly, making a simple right turn severely battery! And mileage, im trying to fix because he wasnt confident what was the right front wheel bearings to! What was the right front wheel bearings needed to be replaced, then damaged... And which Subaru model you drive the tank up with a solid fault that noise thats... Full disclosure, the light came on O2 sensors are operational which leaves him to believe its! Its the front cat what the rear oxygen sensor readings will look once... And approximately 11000 miles could be causing the sound 2001 model is sensor and. At 60,000 mile maintenance, dealer replaced valve cover gaskets and timing.... Had anything to do all three at the next stop I popped the hood and noticed severely. Cel P0420 coming on something else and no rust, $ 3800 is way out of line of.. Was running rich then there would be greatly appreciated I got a P0420 code ability to filter. Told us the catalytic converter was allegedly replaced at a Subaru converter is more to.