P0430

2019 trd pro. Have had little over a year, the sensor first came on when extremely cold and ONLY WHEN COLD. Later to find out, with a more expensive scanner the actual cause.
At first i would clean the winter crap off ans the car would be fine, sensor goes off. Garage told me it was a "failed starter" which in reality it wasnt, as per the photo attached.. opinions appreciated

 

I found this after doing some Google'ing:


UNDERSTANDING ERROR CODE P0430

So, what does the code P0430 mean? This error code is sent when your downstream oxygen sensor on bank two notices an irregularity in your catalytic converter’s performance. A P0430 error code means that the system is operating below the efficiency threshold.

Your catalytic converter is an essential component for reducing your emissions. If it’s not working properly, you could be emitting far more fuel vapors and other contaminants into the environment. Of course, the error code could also mean there’s just an issue with the sensor itself rather than the actual catalytic converter.

A typical engine produces pollutants, like carbon monoxide. Your catalytic converter uses reduction and oxidation to turn carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide and breaks up harmful nitrogen oxides. Both of these catalysts are essential and required to run your vehicle. Without them, your vehicle would be emitted far more harmful gases into the air.


COMMON SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Whether your catalytic converter has truly failed to function properly or your oxygen sensor is damaged, you won’t usually notice any performance issues. Another possible cause is an exhaust leak, in which case you’ll notice an increase in the noise of your vehicle as exhaust bypasses your muffler.

In cold weather, you may experience a rough idle. This is the result of a damaged catalytic converter. Whether it’s damaged or not, you need to inspect your vehicle for any potential damage. Your catalytic converter is an essential part of your emissions system, so it’s worth inspecting quickly.


POSSIBLE CAUSES

Typically, an error code P0430 is the result of one of these issues in your emissions system. Before you solve the problem, look at each of these systems:

• Check your exhaust system for leaks
• Test the voltage of your oxygen sensor
• Inspect your catalytic converter

Each of these causes come with their own solutions, so it’s important to check for each one. In some cases, there may be more than one cause. After you’ve fixed one area, be sure to inspect the other two possible causes to ensure you’ve completely solved the problem code.


SOLUTIONS

Any crack, rusted spot or other damage to your exhaust system can be the source of your P0430. In that case, you need to replace the particular length of pipe or your entire exhaust system to fix the problem.

For a faulty oxygen sensor, it could be the result of a loose electrical connection, frayed wiring or a dirty or damaged sensor. Carefully inspect your bank two oxygen sensor for oily grime or damage. Either way, you may also want to inspect your other oxygen sensors for similar issues.

A damaged catalytic converter requires replacement. Over time, the effectiveness of your converter may diminish until it’s completely clogged. Once a converter is clogged, it can completely stop your emissions system can cause a buildup in your engine that could damage other components.

Some catalytic converters may be rendered useless without extensive buildup. If your oxygen sensor is working correctly, you may need to replace your catalytic converter. Even if it looks like there isn’t a great deal of buildup, have your converter inspected to ensure it’s working properly and performing both catalyst functions.

 

Brought it in, shop of course got a generic scan and not the same as mine. We changed 2 o2 sensors, he also suggested the plugs but they are brand new, changed them from stock in october. That lasted less than 48 hours before check engine came on again. WHYYYYY?!?!?! Is this common? I havent changed the battery since purchase, my next basic thing to do, but i am at a loss.. my guy looked everything over and the car is maintained and in good shape..

 

It might be worth having the battery tested. If original, it's nearing 5 years and depending on its previous environment may be past its prime.

 

For sure my next step. My mechanic seems to think its something internal computer based. Yaaay.. ill go get one this week and see. Ive babied this car since day one, only bought her the best of the best and its just frustrating because when you google this and try to dive deep it seems liks this might be a common unresolved issue.

 

I didn't see how many miles are on the truck.
The image you put up is only part of the discussion on the repair, which is titled "Replace Catalytic Converter"
Sometimes, code diagnostics are tricky. It could be anything from the sensor, to the connection, to the connector, to the harness, to the ground, to the ECM.

 

If you have an OBD2 scanner/dongle with live data, monitor the bank 1 sensor 2 and bank 2 sensor 2 readings after about 20 minutes of driving. Check for differences. Sensor 2 reading is supposed to be steady if the converter and sensor are working correctly.



Confirm the issue first (i.e. verify bank 2 sensor 2 reading is jumpy).

Replace the battery and make sure the terminal clamps are tight. If that doesn't solve the problem, take it to the dealer if you're under 80k miles. The ECM and catalytic converter are covered by the 8yr/80k major emissions component warranty.

 

I bought the car last year, early december with 103km, im at 131km now. The sensor first came on in our extreme cold here in canada 2 months after purchase, and i have received many different readings. Faulty start(i stopped using my auto starter) and only through ignition, then i received another code that the gas cap was not air tight, fixed that now i got the catty converter, its been checked, and the final reading was generic with many outcomes to change. So ya, battery next, im not sure where my best source of info will come from? Do i go dealer and hope they know the cause, or do i stick with my guy and we change as much as possible? Thanks for the help

 

Plus one on monitoring the switching freq. Converters do fail from time to time.

 

That sensor output graph I posted was from the Toyota service manual for P0430, as specific as it gets.

"Change as much as possible" is the worst way to diagnose a problem. If your guy is telling you to do that, go somewhere else. If you don't have a reliable indie shop in your area, go to the dealer. Beware a catalytic converter replacement is a 4-figure repair. Did you ever go to the dealer to document the issue? Note the major-item emissions warranty is 8yr/130k km in Canada, and you are now outside the warranty period.

 

So, I bought an extended warranty, 95% coverage bumper to bumper, and its good for another 3 years or to 180km. To sum up, shit should be covered. Ill get a second opinion then, seems more effective. No, i never went to toyota i went to the shop that my warranty had guaranteed and the guy seems honest. I think second opinion is my best bet now.