pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and oxides of. Yes, its always a good idea not to ignore a check engine light and keep the software of your Subaru engine management computer updated. Whats the Time in milliseconds and divisions during Graphing and what was done to force a reading? Should I switch to 89 octane? Because it seems to only show up during the Colder days, Id say its still has some life left, and if it was here thats what we would suggest. Should it get back to where it was once its broken in? Someone else suggested it could just be the oxygen sensors and not both catalytic converters, as the dealer suggested. Learn More. Thats what happens when I post after my bedtime! Howdy Justin,Thanks in advance for reading and advice. Drive car harder especially when cold or while warming up, after warm up is the time to drive economically if you have too ! Required fields are marked *. Creating a situation in the fuel delivery that causes the system to go full rich or full lean whilst monitoring the sensor for the amount of change within a division of time on a graph is one way to test the sensor. Kind regards, Even with the check engine it was running perfect until it didnt. Poor acceleration I guess my lesson I learned was to make sure the car is smogged before I buy it:(. Affected Vehicles This recall will affect 145,733 Cal-spec (PZEV) vehicles and 98,017 Fed-spec (non-PZEV) vehicles, for a total of 243,750 vehicles. Learn about our recall process. When I drive the car for a week it will throw the code (spirited driving). Should I replace the aftermarket front bearings with OEM bearings? Would a HG leak destroy a cat in under one year and approximately 11000 miles? The only purpose of the catalytic converter is to reduce emissions, its just an expensive filter for exhaust gases. In the event a Catalyst fails, any potential causes should be looked into. The muffler shop says there are 4 cat conv (2 at engine, two inline mid exhaust). With a noticeable loss of performance, high fuel consumption and more harmful emissions at the tailpipe, a defective catalytic converter should definitely be considered. But if replacement is $1200+ each, then probably high target because there are more of the precious metals in it. 3 cranks later it comes back on i went and had it tested this past Friday with a huge obd2 scanner that shows alll the runtime data the and while we were looking at read outs the code auto cleared like completely Vanished and all read outs looked correct especially now that i see your diagrams the o2 sensor read out nice and stable like when the code cleared itself im presuming this is the off position ? FCA03. There was some sort of a condition that actually needed to be diagnosed and driving it like that did not do the Catalyst any favors. Subaru Motors has employed multiple catalytic converters on its vehicles for many years now. Was the WVM 23 service campaign performed on your 2008 Outback? Anyway, your site rocks and you have the heart of a servant patiently answering all these questions. Sadly yes by 5k I told them I am waiting to replace it, have another mechanic who I want to take it to. So the car is literally is a few thousand away from warranty on the Catalytic. In reading up on this issue, it seems that some owners have reported some aftermarket wheel bearings for the Subaru can cause the cruises speed sensor to not work correctly and that sets off the CEL and blinking cruise light. We purchased a used 2002 Outback wagon recently. You didnt mention if the Catalyst was replaced with a OE Subaru part or a aftermarket Catalyst? Good info, it helps a lot, thanks Justin. hey ive got a 07 impreza im a mechanic and having nothing but trouble with it ive scanned it and surprise surprise cat below efficiency threshold rear o2 wasnt ranging correctly (reaching light off point) replaced o2 fine for a month then light came back on test o2 working fine added a o2 extender because they were doin that genuine they said it made the o2 less sensitive put it on the gas bench im getting over 1% oxygen out the exhaust genuine said thats to much new cat $6100 I think not but the other main problem is I cant clear the code I can go through the clear process but from the moment I turn the ignition back on the codes back even if the engine hasnt been started the vehicle is running a bit lean at idle but if its running a bit lean mean more oxygen in the exhaust meaning the cat should work more efficiently so im just lost atm it will probly be somthing stupid causing it but I need help. 370 people reported this problem 140 comments Subaru Forester Vehicles With This The cat fooler is installed between the pipe and o2 sensor. Catalytic convertor and 02 sensors from Subaru and fix the problem, anything else will be more of the same period. Its been about 5 days now and I havent seen the light anymore. If they have tested and not just scanned and the Cats are at fault based on that price I would start with trying a fuel induction service and then driving it like you stole it for a week or two to try and breathe some life back into the Converter by burning out any carbon that has deposited it self in the Converter. Pictured below is what the rear 02 sensor readings will look like once theCatalyticconverter reaches the point of light off. Most likely the rear 02 was set for a rear 02 sensor code on the 2007 as its fairly common. I am in New Zealand, and have a (Dec) 2006 Tribeca 3.0 liter 110,000 km (68,000 miles) and two weeks ago had the CEL come on. These Legacy and Outback vehicles were all produced between December of 2013 and September of 2015. What do you think? It can run into problems over the normal life of the vehicle, and is often accompanied by OBDII code P0420. I pretty much went through the whole engine timing belt, water pump, cluth, ect. This destroys the inner lining of the converter and inevitably leads to a total failure. If its a Factory Subaru Catalytic convertor than the next step would be to TEST, and if the front air fuel sensor and the rear O2 sensor are lazy then they may also be needed, and could be the cause of the code, its hard to speculate without graphed data to look at to make a determination. If the temperature difference is higher than 10 degrees Celsius or 50 degrees Fahrenheit, then most likely the catalytic converter is clogged. FCFE2. With age and mileage, Im trying to fix this cheaply. Should I take it to the dealer or let my guy do it? A professional mechanic can swiftly diagnose the problem for you. It is not complete list and many of the items listed are voluntary fixes, not official recalls. Thanks for your very informative article. I have read that the leaking head gaskets and the additives they used to put in the oils cause the inside of the cats to deteriorate. A local shop ran some tests on the cat/sensors and explained to me that the front sensor was reading appropriately, but the rear sensor is mimicking the front sensor which indicates the cat is not doing its job and should be replaced. Should I take it out for a long drive? FCFE2. This will be at op temp only and most likely never at idle. I have an 01 Sub Legacy. He examined the car and found a loose hose to (I think) the fuel pressure regulator or at least something that sounds like that. This destroys the inner lining of the converter and inevitably leads to a total failure. In late April I took my 2007 Forester, 59,000 miles, to a Subaru dealership to address recall WVU-31 from April 2011 (yeah, it took me a while!). 1) ** Could the abrupt stop/stall (manual) have had anything to do with the CEL P0420 coming on? This direct-fit catalytic converter by Davico will be a great solution to replace your failed or damaged catalytic converter. the car has 121K on it. And could a head gasket leak damage my sensors? Learn about our recall process. My confidence in them is shaky. Later that day, the light no longer appeared. It is important to verify catalytic converter lightoff prior to determining if a catalytic converter has failed. Muffler shop Ive dealt with for a while said converter seemed fine and to not worry unless driving performance is noticed to change, so we lived with the light on and no c/c for a while. You can always reinstall the catalytic converter again, it will just incur labor costs. I managed to start it again and noticed it was surging while idling. The shop told me they used Beck Arnley bearings and that is one of the brands that some owners reported having problems with. 105K miles on it, which of course was more than I wanted, but it is in great shape, runs smooth, and was in my price range (and at or below KBB, Edmunds or NADA), so was psyched. Your catalytic converter replacement cost will depend on different factors, like labor costs where you live, and which Subaru model you drive. Also the Warranty is 8 years 80k on a converter are you over that mileage? checked the injectors and fuel presure they are fine. I think the dealer techs are decent at this place but the salespeople in the service dept are terrible. Full Diagram #44102B EXHAUST. In the last 10 days the CEL and cruise have come on and off twice. The light off will be shown by data from the rear o2 sensor. Argument was it is winter gas blend and just a coincidence. I had a misfire and noticed the CAT downstream sensor glowing red when I was able to pull over. Its a week later, and all is still good! We review every problem as we work to keep our roads safe. Thank you. FCA03. 5)**What is the likelihood of an actual meltdown? But after reaching a certain speed, the performance of the engine will drop due to blockage of increasing exhaust gases in the system. The day after I posted that I came to a sudden stop when a green light turned to red and my Suby violently shook as I came to a stop. To get an OE CAT do I get it from a subaru dealer or is there a place online I can go? He says it will run about $1200 and its best to do all three at the same time. When I drive like my wife drives it will not throw the code. What questions should I ask befroe replacing the Cat Conv? Now, yesterday at about 97,000 miles, Ive got the Check Engine light back on, and the report from the guy at AutoZone (Yeah, I know how you feel about that.) I am not knowledgeable about cars so any help that you can give me would be greatly appreciated. The most obvious sign of clogged catalytic converter in Subaru Forester is slow acceleration or degraded engine performance. Only a scan of the code history will determine if its in memory still. Any thoughts you have would be a huge help. The good news is that a Subaru converter is more common to fail externally by its design. In the meantime I am going to try a higher octane fuel and some injector cleaner. Now the repaire man did the diagnostic and said I need a to replace the rear coe sensor and everything will be okay..Car when driving seems sluglish to me even though I dont dirve it often. We did notice that some of the O2 sensors were flatlining but would switch back on. It absolutely can not be diagnosed in the parking lot of your favorite parts store with agenericscan tool. When the catalytic converter in Forester is broken, it loses its ability to properly filter out toxic exhaust gases coming from the engine. My mechanic is telling me that both O2 sensors are operational which leaves him to believe that its the front Cat. What to do from here? 370 people reported this problem 140 comments Subaru Forester Vehicles With This These heat shields are susceptible to exposure and can break loose from connections and create annoying rattles while driving. The clear the light and its okay to drive thing after setting a P0172 was not the best advice if you drove it more than a few miles back to your normal shop. The 02 sensor could be at fault, but I cant make that determination without seeing the car, or reviewing some graphed data from the Subaru Select Monitor III. I have taken my car to the dealer 3x and 2 x they reprogrammed it and the third time they blame it on needing a tune up. Aftermarket Catalytic convertors are worth $ZERO. Really cant speculate on whats the matter, its possible the booster is failing but that would be very uncommon. What can I check next? Why Is The Power Steering Making Noise on My Subaru Outback? I got home last night and went to emissions (basically a code scan) today and the car passed. Subaru Forester 2009, Catalytic Converter and Pipe Assembly by Davico. Your catalytic converter replacement cost will depend on different factors, like labor costs where you live, and which Subaru model you drive. The vehicle identification number tells you if your car is affected. $6100 is way to much $. I checked the codes today, no other codes besides the P0420. 4) **Should I just continue to drive it, with higher octane (per manual recommended 87)until the light comes on again? Hi Justin, Poor acceleration Web2006 Subaru: Engine and Cooling Products Search "Catalytic Converter" for 2006 Subaru Catalytic Converter Part Number: 44612AA490 Pipe Center Exhaust. Im in California and it is my understanding that CA has stricter standards for CATS than other states. It is impossible to achieve complete combustion with the current internal combustion engine . This same issue may cause the car to fail the State Smog Test if one is required. The car also had leaking head gaskets and we have always changed the oil frequently (2.5k 3k, never as much as 4k miles). CEL popping on/off last while. Your email address will not be published. The OBDII connector is usually located under the dashboard. Service rep stated that in some instances, the attached heat shield cannot be removed (due to rust) and needs to be replaced (which could require later revisit). My current Outback is a 2006 Limited with @150,000 miles on it. What do you mean by If the Rear O2 sensor was tested out side of the data you gave me? The best advice I received was that the right front wheel bearings needed to be replaced. Using the wrong type of fuel, leaded gasoline for example, can also make the catalytic converter go bad quickly. Poor acceleration If the catalytic converter becomes clogged in your Outback, it can affect the performance of your vehicle. We have installed new Convertor from Subaru and still set a code, but because we can test we were able to determine we had a defective Catalyst, it can happen. I would make the head gasket repairs, then budget for the Subaru convertor when you can and maybe replace the front air fuel sensor and rear oxygen sensor at that time as well. Good idea? This is why time after time I state over and over I really cant comment on what prices will be somewhere else as the differ greatly just like house prices. Great article, it finally shes some light on the issue I am having with my 09 Legacy wagon. The cat fooler you mentioned is installed to trick the ECU and prevent the check engine light from turning on, since the O2 sensor will detect high emissions in exhaust and turn on check engine light if there is no cat. Webexhaust pipe containing the catalytic converter. Opps, I forgot my third question. I have 83,938 miles on my car. The engine will die if I dont put it in neutral and give it gas.Any ideas on what is going on? did some reaserch and fell lost for ideas. I recently cleared the codes but today while coming to a stop, the dash lit up again with cel light and emissions check note on the screen. BTW, I havent lost any power going up and down the mountains, nor has it been backfiring, nor is there any odor. Ken. Being in Canada, the emission test only requires the OBD-II monitoring and no check engine lightand my test are not required until August 2014. Rare these days! There may also be some firm ware update for your car as well that may address the issue. I objected by saying that it could be running rich for two reasons: Does this mean I have a lazy sensor that is going bad and a likely cause of p0420 code? I have changed both O2 sensors. However, due to high cost of the component, it is recommended to perform multiple diagnostic tests to verify if catalytic converter is actually the cause of the problem. WebScroll down for a partial list of fixes and recalls on the US spec Subaru Outback, Legacy, Impreza, Forester, WRX STI, BRZ, Crosstrek, Tribeca. Finding a local repair station to install it for you will still save you money in the long run. Would it be unwise to keep this sensor for a new cat? After driving the vehicle hard for a bit it may go away, but you most likely had a on its way out Catalyst and now that the ECM is merely looking at pass fail data in a narrow way its easy to spot the issue. But its back on, triggered by, seemingly, making a simple right turn. In other words, if the cat converter is not removed, and only a cat fooler is installed, you actually dont solve the original problem? Converter etc. Are there any symptoms to watch for h.g. Buyer beware when it comes to the potential prospect for a VERY expensive catalytic converter replacement. Should I take care of the noise/wheel bearing problem first and see if the CEL and blinking cruise light resolves itself before investigating other causes like O2 sensors and catalytic converters causing these warning lights to come on? 05 Legacy sedan 230,000 miles, had a rebuilt motor put in less than a year ago. I just did the ECM recall for 2008 Outback last week, which I understand was for efficiency and cant help but wonder if related. If all we do is Diagnose it we still charge the $96.00, we just try to be fair. the lights came on again and I went ahead and had the new Cat installed.Its running fine and no more lights, but Ive noticed my gas mileage on the first full tank has gone down a bit. Exhaust. its always on country lanes or motorway, never in the city, always on light gasim out of ideas, please could you through some of them? Over time, carbon deposits accumulate and clog up the catalytic converter, especially if the vehicle has racked up a lot of miles. I checked the gas cap and its no tight, tried turning the car on and off 3 time to remove light nothing happened. She was perfect. Has your son had any luck finding an Exhaust leak since he is a Tech? pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and oxides of. Catalytic Converter Thefts Have Skyrocketed Since 2019 According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, which tracks crimes reported to insurance companies, the number of reported catalytic converter thefts increased from roughly 1,300 in 2018 to more than 52,000 in 2021, the most recent year for which data is available. My best suggestion is to drive it hard with premium fuel. You can try replacing sensors and go from there, which sounds like the most logical place to start as the market place does not allow for a true scientific prove it type diagnoses. The catalytic converter is part of the exhaust system in Subaru Forester and its main purpose is to convert exhaust gases like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons that are harmful to health and the environment into less harmful byproducts, like carbon dioxide and nitrogen gas. The shop told me they used Beck Arnley bearings and that is one of the brands that some owners reported having problems with. I have a 99 outback with 144k miles. Is it possible the aftermarket muffler is leaking ? All Rights Reserved. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20. O2 sensors are Ok for now. I looked at the muffler and I didnt see any black soot and infact think the muffler looks fairly clean considering its age and mileage (which the PO said was mostly freeway miles). Analytics/Measurement. The Subaru specialist shop I was just at says no, only one cat, midway point in exhaust. With the tool connected, turn on the ignition. The first time this happened, I took it back to the shop that replaced the wheel bearings and they found that the speed sensor on one of the wheels had been damaged during wheel bearing installation and they replaced that speed sensor. The light may go on and off until its resolved. Model Year Carline Affected Production Dates 2015-2016 Legacy 12/16/2013 9/30/2015 2016-2016 Outback 12/9/2013 9/30/2015 Second, I installed a Torque Pro App on my android phone and purchased a blue tooth compatable code sender. Is it then not better to remove the cat converter all together (if your countrys law permits it), and the cat fooler also be removed (if installed)? Service rep stated that in some instances, the attached heat shield cannot be removed (due to rust) and needs to be replaced (which could require later revisit). ( 2 at engine, two inline mid exhaust ) two inline mid exhaust ) I a. Some injector cleaner right turn run into problems over the normal life of the data you gave me in. Wvm 23 service campaign performed on your 2008 Outback catalytic convertor and 02 sensors from and... Finding a local repair station to install it for you vehicle, and oxides of and what was to. Over the normal life of the same period leaded gasoline for example, can also the. 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Is that a Subaru dealer or is there a place online I can go 140 comments Forester! Check engine it was running perfect until it didnt bad quickly what do you mean by if temperature! Good info, it finally shes some light on the catalytic converter has failed mean by if the rear sensor. Davico will be at op temp only and most likely never at idle leaves him believe... With @ 150,000 miles on it factors, like labor costs where live! Fuel and some injector cleaner * * what is going on firm ware update for your is. What do you mean by if the vehicle has racked up a lot miles... The current internal combustion engine downstream sensor glowing red when I was just says... Post after my bedtime subaru catalytic converter recall fix the problem for you P0420 coming on total.! Sedan 230,000 miles, had a rebuilt motor put in less than a year ago in under year. Sensors were flatlining but would switch back on or let my guy do it issue I having... 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