BM Catalysts, a leading manufacturer of emissions products, is urging the automotive industry to better understand vehicle fault codes. The company highlights that Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), such as the common P0420 code, provide a warning for underlying problems but do not necessarily identify the exact faulty component.
According to BM Catalysts, the most frequent error code its technical team encounters is P0420, which indicates that the “Catalyst System Efficiency [is] Below Threshold (Bank 1).” This means the catalytic converter is not performing as efficiently as expected. However, the company stresses that a P0420 code does not automatically mean the catalytic converter itself is to blame. The root cause can often be an issue elsewhere, such as exhaust leaks, engine misfires, defective oxygen sensors, fuel injector problems, or catalyst contamination.
James Saunders, Technical Director at BM Catalysts, said: “Error codes like P0420 are a reminder that diagnosis must go beyond replacing a part. They highlight issues elsewhere in the engine system that, if left unresolved, can shorten the lifespan of a new catalytic converter.”
He added that by educating the market on these codes, the company is “helping workshops and distributors make accurate decisions, avoid unnecessary replacements, and ultimately provide a better service to their customers.”
BM Catalysts emphasises that a proper understanding of fault codes is crucial for resolving immediate issues and ensuring the longevity of emissions control systems. The company offers technical resources and support to help technicians diagnose effectively.
For more information and to access technical advice, visit bmcats.com.