"Service engine soon" light on

[dcb]

It could also be an exhaust leak (or a wonky o2 sensor).

[texanidiot25]

Originally Posted by rick390

I took it to the local Schuck's auto parts store. They were kind enough to read the code for me. The code was P0420, " catalytic system efficiency below threshold (Bank 1)". So there it is ladies and germs. I guess I need a new cat. Wonder what that feline will set me back.

$70-ish I think it was for the one on our GMC Jimmy. They cause hell on a motor when they do kick the bucket.

How many miles on your car btw?

[Johnny Mullet]

I have that code all the time. Oh wait................


The code will not effect driveability, but to stay legal, I would replace the cat. I bought one for mine used for $50.00, but never put it on yet.

[rick390]

I guess I'm gonna be a regular at my local wrecking yard. I had to pick up a couple of rims from them. My Metro came with some bent ones.

[rick390]

Gassed up my Metro yesterday and the "service engine soon" light went out and has not come back on. Go figure

[Johnny Mullet]

Good for you joan! The "Service Light" is different from the "Check Engine" light on most vehicles, but learning to reset them on different vehicles can be a real pain.

Hope to see you around more often

[MetroMPG]

Just FYI, my Firefly #1 had the same code.

The previous owner replaced the cat several months before I got the car, but the light came back within a few months.

When I got the car, a little digging revealed the root cause was an old O2 sensor which was permitting a rich condition and higher cat temps (fuel burning on the catalyst). That's what killed them.

[RiseAbove]

Originally Posted by MetroMPG

Just FYI, my Firefly #1 had the same code.

The previous owner replaced the cat several months before I got the car, but the light came back within a few months.

When I got the car, a little digging revealed the root cause was an old O2 sensor which was permitting a rich condition and higher cat temps (fuel burning on the catalyst). That's what killed them.

I still maintain that curiousity killed the cat...

[Peter7307]

Originally Posted by joan

Hi guys,

& it worked :-)
My first car fix ever!!!
Joan.

Congratulations and Welcome as well.
Enjoy your stay.

Cheers , Pete.

[greenitup]

May be no big deal, my "check engine" light has been on since about december so about 7 months. Could be a problem too though.