Dreaded P02420 CODE! TRUCK TURNS OVER BUT WON'T START!

HELLO folks, I've got a 96 Tacoma LX with the 3.4 ltr. V6.

The other day, I drove my truck to work. Started just fine. Drove it home for lunch. Started just fine. However, when I went out to start it at 5 p.m., it wouldn't start. It would just sit there and turn over and over. It wouldn't fire at all.

So, I borrowed a code reader from the auto parts store and received JUST 1 code only:

"P0420 CATALYST SYSTEM. EFFICIENCY BELOW THRESHOLD (BANK 1)"

What does this mean? Bad catalytic converter? Why would this prevent the truck from starting?

It's either not getting gas or spark. Regardless, it will turn over and over but will not fire nor start.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. This truck has never failed me!


THANKS!
96WHITEONBLUETACO

 

I think bamatoy1997 is having the same issue...maybe pm him..

 

Did yours spit and sputter at all before you killed it the last time? My 96 DLX 2.7L is cranking but not starting. I haven't been able to get a code reader but can't figure mine out either. Heres my thread, hope it helps you and PLEASE let me know if you find anything out.

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/1st-gen-tacomas/322837-stranded-me-wont-fire-just-bought.html