$100 BlueDriver Pro Scanner Vs P0420 Code

Hey guys,

Follow up to my O2 sensor code post. LSSS - Replacing the 02 Sensors fixed that code but now that the ECU trusts the O2 sensors enough to complete the catalytic converter diagnostics, it is setting the dread P0420 code.

So happens about a week before I bought this truck (6 weeks ago) I bought a $100 BlueDriver Pro code scanner off Amazon. It connects to a tablet via bluetooth. I have about 45 minutes experience with this tool. I mostly bought it just to check and reset codes...which it does very well. But, it also allows you to monitor values and due some rudimentary real time graphing. Last night I drove my 2012 for about 15 miles after resetting the codes. When I got home the CEL was still off, but the code reader shows P0420 stored as a permanent code and as a pending code....so it's about to set the CEL off again.

Here's the portion of the diagnostic that shows P0420 status. The Min and Max (I THINK) are the minimum and maximum numbers to pass the test. The VAL is the current number stored in the ECU for how my truck is doing vs the standard. So...I need a .070 or higher to clear the permanent code and pass the test....and after 15 miles it's woefully short of that.



I started the truck back up and did a live data log of each of the o2 sensors and RPM/1000. It is attached.

I'm not sure what to make of it. I think it's showing the rear o2 sensor off until it heats up and then is showing it reading constant "rich" from then on. The rear o2 sensor readings at idle were in the .85 range and just stayed there while the front 02 sensor was pretty steady at 3.2.

Thoughts here? Is it too early to say the Cat is very likely past it?

Phil

 

If the converter is working correctly the downstream O2 sensor should be fairly steady at around 0.8 volts exept when the cat is cold, a decel event or heavy aceleration.
If it "switches" alot that indicates the converter is not functioning properly or theres an exhaust leak, make sure you don't have any exhaust leaks or other O2 related codes before you condemn the converter.

 

I guess I need to buy a lottery ticket. At 3:00 this morning, I woke up worrying about this truck, and thought to myself....seems like there was something in the 1000 pages I've read since I started looking at Tacomas about a recall on catalytic converters back in the day:

I ran my VIN on the website to check for outstanding recalls on my truck. There were 2. The first is to put a sticker on the door about tire size. The second is to replace the cats and exhaust pipe if it malfunctions. I called my nearby Toyota Dealer's service department. The guy was very skeptical, but looked it up and said "Man, it's your lucky day." He ordered me a new OEM assembly and will call when it comes in to set up an appointment to replace it free of charge.

Whoop!

 

That’s fucking sweet OP!!!!

 

I had this code. Turned out of be the gasket connecting that side to the Y pipe. Gotta replace both gaskets though.

I used a ratchet strap to pull the the exhaust back to separate the cats from the Y pipe. Done in under an hour.