Hey folks,

So I got a check engine light after a long weekend driving around the west of ireland last weekend.

I got it to a dealer today and there's a FAULT P0420 - CAT SYSTEM FAULT THRESHOLD - CAT DAMAGED.

The only symptoms are the engine light and possibly exhaust fumes coming into the cabin at low speed.

The dealer has informally quoted my about 1700 euro for parts for the CAT and the 02 sensor. I've found replica CATs online for much cheaper but from googling around looks like it would be a good idea to try change the coils and plugs too if going to change the CAT.

What would people suggest the best course of action? If repairs are going to go past 2000 euro, I'll likely have to change cars, I really don't want to do that.

Many thanks in advance!!
John

 

The cat is bad, usually bad coils are the reason they go bad.
They should be changed every 30k miles.
Cheap cats don't last.
You can gut the cat, or get a midpipe.
I have a midpipe and install a cheap Walker cat every 2 years just to pass inspection.

 

Thanks!

Forgive my ignorance, will gutting the cat or installing a midpipe clear the "check engine" warning light or do I have to live with it?

 

It will re-occur, mine pops up every few weeks.
I use the Torque app ($5) for Android and a Bluetooth dongle (about $30) to clear it, and it's also useful for monitoring your engine functions.
*edit* Be sure the cat is indeed bad if you choose to gut it, and if you do, remove the sensor before you do so you don't damage it.

 

Excellent, thanks!