P0430 engine check code

[93pologrn]

I have a 2002 coupe, automatic with only 23000 miles and had the engine check light come on. The code responsible is P0430 right bank. I changed the 02 sensors, and the spark plugs as this seemed the less expensive approach in case it was not the catalytic converter problem. The error code keeps coming back on. I think with so few miles on this car it would be unlikely the cat is the problem. I went to one site and it stated there are numerous reasons for this error code and that 95 percent of the time it is not the cat that is causing the problem. I, however, am out of ideas of other parts that could be affecting the cat. I know if I go to a GM garage they probably won't want to spend a lot of time trying to find out what is causing the problem. One place immediately wanted to replace the cat w/o analysis. Any ideas?

 

[dadaroo]

I would test by putting in a jumper to feed the sensor via the opposite left side "good" circuit.

 

[93pologrn]

I would test by putting in a jumper to feed the sensor via the opposite left side "good" circuit.

Can physically explain how to do that? Thanks

 

[dadaroo]

It is either the cat or something in your right side circuit. What I was suggesting is unplug a matched pair of left and right O2 sensors. Don't know if what you are dealing with are the ones before or after the cat but pick a matched set. Then make a jumper to have the right side sensor wiring connect to the left side sensor.

If your problem still exists it is not the cat. If it does go away it is the cat.

 

[93pologrn]

Thank you for your input. Going to attempt the jumper next week and keeping my fingers crossed it is not the cat.

 

[LLC5]

Thank you for your input. Going to attempt the jumper next week and keeping my fingers crossed it is not the cat.

I wouldn't bother. If you are getting the code the P0430 code it means that your wiring and computer are functioning correctly, the catalytic converter is not to OBD2 standards and is degraded. Good luck with it.

 

[dadaroo]

I agree but he wanted a way to confirm. The only way it could not be the cat is if he were throwing some other codes. With only that code it is the cat, even the FSM says that.

 

[LLC5]

I agree but he wanted a way to confirm. The only way it could not be the cat is if he were throwing some other codes. With only that code it is the cat, even the FSM says that.

Confirm what is already known?

If the OP does as you suggest by using jumper wires to confirm something, he is probably only going to create more issues with either melted wires or factory harness pin fit issues after the "test". There is just no reason to perform the test and possibly create more problems. No flame intended.

 

[dadaroo]

LLC5 no flame taken. I know your experience and knowledge and have much respect for your input as everyone else should.

 

[LLC5]

LLC5 no flame taken. I know your experience and knowledge and have much respect for your input as everyone else should.

Good to know thanks, I didn't have a lot of time yesterday and you never know how your (my) print will be interpreted.

Here is the biggest reason NOT to mess with wire terminals if it is at all possible: pin fit (female to male terminals) is hugely critical to any electrical circuit with computers. GM states that after 2 remove and replace (open and close essentially) that pin fit (or pin drag) can be compromised, it probably won't be if you are careful but just be aware that it is possible. I have removed and connected many connectors a lot more than twice with out any issues, so I personally believe that GM is being very conservative. Now to follow on that sequence about pin fit, when you use jumper wires between two connectors you are not only opening and closing the female pin end BUT also since the wires are not housed in a plastic connector the male terminal is also creating a side to side tension that can affect pin fit. The factory (or aftermarket) plastic connectors not only make it easy to plug and unplug wires, but they keep terminal tension from moving side to side and creating a loose condition. This is why back probing is the preferred method to jumping a connector or testing a circuit, as you are putting tension on the backside of the wire terminal which does not affect pin fit to the opposite pin (male to female).