In case your automotive is setting the P0422 error code, it’s probably that the catalytic converter has degraded and can must be modified. Being that each one autos are equipped with catalytic converters, whether or not or not your automotive is a Ford, Chevy, Mercedes, or VW, it’s in a position to setting this fault code or the related P0420 error code.
Catalytic converters have been spherical for a few years. However, the modern catalytic converter did not make an look until 1981. In 1981, the Three-Means Converter (TWC) was utilized and required on all US autos. The TWC converts carbon monoxide (CO) into carbon dioxide (CO2), and hydrocarbons (HC) flip into CO2 and water (H2O). Lastly, nitrides of oxygen are remodeled into nitrogen and oxygen.
This chemical change happens when the exhaust gasses transfer by the heated catalyst. The catalyst comprises treasured metals comparable to rhodium, platinum, and palladium. These metals chemically alter the composition of the exhaust gasses, cleaning them. Sadly, the P0422 error code may level out an expensive restore.
Code Amount | Code Description | Related Codes |
---|---|---|
P0422 | Main Catalyst Effectivity Beneath Threshold (Monetary establishment 1) | P0420 – Catalyst System Effectivity Beneath Threshold (Monetary establishment 1) |
What Does The P0422 Error Code Suggest?
The P0422 error code is about when the Engine Administration Module (ECM) signifies the catalyst should not be performing on the specified effectivity. The catalyst is monitored by the ECM by utilizing oxygen sensors. These sensors are positioned sooner than and after the catalyst inside the exhaust stream to look at the change inside the gasoline composition as a result of it passes by the converter.
In case your post-converter oxygen sensor reads a lot much less oxygen than desired, the P0422 error code could be set.
What Causes The P0422 Error Code?
The P0422 error code is generally attributable to a defective or worn catalytic converter.
Various causes will lead to premature catalyst failure:
- Cylinder misfires
- Faulty engine coolant temperature sensor
- Caught or leaking gasoline injector
- Faulty ECM
Indicators Of The P0422 Error Code
Most likely essentially the most typically reported symptom for the P0422 error code is an illuminated Confirm Engine Mild (CEL). Totally different indicators are:
- Failed emissions testing
- Cylinder misfires
- Poor acceleration
- “Rotten egg” or sulfur odor
- Stalls when revved

Can I Drive My Automotive With This Problem?
Whether or not or not you probably can proceed driving your automotive will rely upon how worn your converter is. If the catalyst has melted and grow to be clogged, it should severely affect engine operation as a result of the exhaust gasses will not be going to be adequately expelled, resulting in misfires and/or engine stalling.
If the one symptom your automotive reveals is an illuminated CEL, you would proceed driving the automotive. However, with out intervention, the indicators can worsen over time. Furthermore, whereas the P0422 error code is present in your automotive, the automotive is releasing further air pollution into the setting which can be harmful to the setting.
How To Restore A P0422 Error Code On Your Vehicle
We always advocate having your automotive’s onboard diagnostic system scanned to verify the fault code is present/full of life sooner than attempting any repairs. Since 1996, all autos have utilized the On-Board Diagnostic II (OBD-II) system. This technique is ready to manufacturer-specific and generic codes. These strategies might be scanned by numerous scanners. Most native elements retailers provide free OBD-II system scans. Chances are you’ll always have an emissions testing facility or an automotive restore retailer perform a system scan as correctly.
On most autos, the therapy for the P0422 error code is the choice of the catalytic converter. Even the Mercedes-Benz service handbook states that altering the TWC is the one restore for the P0422 error code.
Catalytic Converter Substitute
Altering the converter might be tough since exhaust strategies are inclined to rust. The following are among the many steps to altering a converter.
- Elevate and help the automotive using jack stands or a automotive hoist.
- Discover the catalytic converter.
- Take away the exhaust {{hardware}} and hangers supporting the converter.
- Change the exhaust gaskets and {{hardware}} if attainable.
- Arrange the choice converter.
- Confirm for leaks and proper exhaust mounting.
Catalytic Converter Treatment
Some companies provide a chemical cleaning agent which may be injected into the air consumption of the automotive or poured into the gasoline tank. This chemical remedy will transfer by the converter and should restore the catalyst. This isn’t going to work on severely degraded or melted catalysts, nonetheless it might be a cheaper varied to different and has an trustworthy success payment.
How Rather a lot Does It Worth To Restore?
The payment to interchange a TWC on a Volkswagen Beetle or Jetta will can be found between $1,600 and $2,000, according to RepairPal. This worth will fluctuate whether or not or not manufacturing unit VW elements are used. We priced the catalytic converter different for the favored Ford F-150, and the anticipated worth is between $1,500 and $1,600.
The value for converters varies enormously with the elements costing further for higher-end autos comparable to Porsche and Mercedes. As a result of priceless metals, catalytic converters might be costly. There are aftermarket decisions. However, you would want to steer clear of these relying in your automotive’s emissions guidelines.
Some different converters might be welded in by an exhaust restore retailer. This route will often forestall money.
Component Worth Estimates
Component | Worth Estimate |
---|---|
Catalytic converter | $1,200 – $3,200 |
Treatment chemical compounds | $15 – $50 |