What does it mean to detect a P0422 error code? The possible triggers, the meaning, and the methods to fix the error must be understood first. So, what should you do if your dashboard shows the error code P0422?
This OBD-II code is related to emissions and must be taken seriously. An early and accurate diagnosis is prescribed for better performance of the vehicle. Read in detail about this code and the methods to fix it.
What is code P0422?
The diagnostic trouble code P0422 simply means the main catalyst efficiency is below the threshold. In short, the efficiency of the main catalyst, which is in the first bank, is below the standard threshold. The warning light on the dashboard is the most common trigger related to this error.
What does the error code P0422 mean?
A catalytic converter in the car oxygenates the exhaust gases and refines the emissions from the tailpipe. The catalyst monitor oxygen sensor monitors this activity. Meanwhile, the engine control module (ECM) keeps track of how often the heated oxygen sensors 1 and 2 switch on and off. Most of the time, a three-way catalyst converter that works means that the heated oxygen sensor switches on and off rarely. As the converter gets bleaker, the frequency goes up.
When the frequency ratio of both heated oxygen sensors 1 and 2 reaches the threshold, the P0422 code is recorded. In other words, it shows that Bank 1 catalytic converter emissions efficiency is below the lowest permitted limit.
What are the symptoms that occur with this code?
Apart from the warning light on the dashboard, it can certainly result in a troubled engine which is the most common symptom apart from the ones mentioned below.
- Increased emissions in the tailpipe
- A brightened MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp)
- A warning light on the service engine
What are the causes of the P0422 code?
The major reasons that can lead to the error code P0422 are mentioned below.
- A faulty oxygen sensor
- Damage to the coolant temperature sensor
- Fault in the manifold air pressure sensor
- Defect with the mass air flow sensor
- Polluted engine oil
- Front engine leak from the catalytic converter
- Faulty engine
- Loose wires and connections
How to diagnose this code
A standard OBD II trouble code scanner helps diagnose P0422 error. However, the right protocol should be followed. By using the scanner, one can always search for additional trouble codes.
Once the code is detected, the codes are reset, and the vehicle is restarted. During this, if the code doesn’t return, then the code was a false trigger. But, if the error code is repeated, then it requires further inspections.
For instance, the wires and connections near the catalytic converter must be checked and replaced. After that, the codes can be reset and checked again. In the same vein, the catalytic converter must be carefully inspected along with the leaks in the exhaust.
This is important because the damage to the catalytic converter occurs as a result of other defects in the engine.
How to fix error code P0422
Correcting the P0422 error code deals mainly with the catalytic converters and sensors. Here are ways to fix if this error arises.
- Catalytic converter replacement
- Replacing oxygen sensors
- Replacing the wires of the electrical connectors
- Fixing the engine leaks
- Mass airflow sensor replacement
- Fixing the fuel pressure regulator
- Manifold air pressure sensor correction
- Replacing the coolant temperature sensor
Things to keep in mind while fixing error code P0422
Firstly, always check for additional codes while running the scanner. If the issue causing the P0422 code is a faulty oxygen sensor, then the code will also be accompanied by an oxygen sensor trouble code. However, the trouble may not always arise due to issues in the oxygen sensors.
Therefore, it is important to determine whether the error code has occurred due to oxygen sensors or not before going forward with a replacement.
Even though this error may not immediately trouble the car or its engine, it needs to be fixed as soon as possible. It is certainly easier to diagnose and fix this issue.
Sara Sam may not look like your typical car and finance expert, but don’t let that fool you. With over four years of experience in the industry, she knows all the ins and outs of cars, car insurance, and refinancing. You can trust Sara to help you navigate the often-confusing world of automobiles and financing.
