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P0420 Code - Replacing Catalyst Converter

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Old Aug 13, 2018 | 02:15 PM
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Default P0420 Code - Replacing Catalyst Converter

Hi guys,

I got a 2008 IS350 and i have my check engine light on with the code P0420. I have taken the car to various reputable places (including my lexus dealer) and every single one has told me i need to replace my front right converter. The dealership quoted the part for $1,300+ (w/o labor) but i have been looking online to see other options.

This is the one i been thinking about buying: https://www.carid.com/2008-lexus-is-...389125789.html

I read how some converters might trigger the code even though the converter might be working fine. I would hate to buy this converter and still have the code since i need to pass emission test to inspect my car. What do you guys know about magna flow converters? Any other brand/converter suggestions? Other places i could get a good converter that won't trigger the code?
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Old Aug 13, 2018 | 09:06 PM
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http://www.easterncatalytic.com/educ...y-p0420-codes/
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Old Aug 14, 2018 | 05:29 AM
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I sent you a PM...
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Old Aug 14, 2018 | 10:56 AM
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Check carefully to make sure that you don't have an exhaust leak, which is the most common reason for the P0420 code on this car. Usually it leaks at the Y-pipe, under the heat shield - which muffles the sound a bit. If so, this is something that an exhaust shop can fix reasonably inexpensively.
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Old Aug 14, 2018 | 11:28 AM
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had a cat got bad and got it replaced at the dealership bc i didnt have the time or energy to deal with replacing it myself.
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Old Aug 21, 2018 | 04:48 PM
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Originally Posted by Alfre2
Hi guys,

I got a 2008 IS350 and i have my check engine light on with the code P0420. I have taken the car to various reputable places (including my lexus dealer) and every single one has told me i need to replace my front right converter. The dealership quoted the part for $1,300+ (w/o labor) but i have been looking online to see other options.

This is the one i been thinking about buying: https://www.carid.com/2008-lexus-is-...389125789.html

I read how some converters might trigger the code even though the converter might be working fine. I would hate to buy this converter and still have the code since i need to pass emission test to inspect my car. What do you guys know about magna flow converters? Any other brand/converter suggestions? Other places i could get a good converter that won't trigger the code?
Hi Alfre, great question. You will want to look at our OEM-grade catalytic converter #49285. This will meet all EPA requirements for a federally-legal catalytic converter AND be designed to work with your vehicle's stock emissions systems and ECU, so you will not get a check engine light. You can find more information on this product here on our website:
https://www.magnaflow.com/products?partNumber=49285

If you have any other questions about it, or would like some assistance locating an authorized Magnaflow dealer, please do not hesitate to contact us by PM or phone at 1-800-990-0905!
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Old Sep 17, 2018 | 11:13 AM
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Originally Posted by Bichon
Check carefully to make sure that you don't have an exhaust leak, which is the most common reason for the P0420 code on this car. Usually it leaks at the Y-pipe, under the heat shield - which muffles the sound a bit. If so, this is something that an exhaust shop can fix reasonably inexpensively.
Is there a DIY for this? Where exactly on the y-pipe should I be looking once I pull the panels? And can I patch this somehow from my garage, or is that exhaust shop welding?
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Old Sep 17, 2018 | 01:46 PM
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Originally Posted by myculito
Is there a DIY for this? Where exactly on the y-pipe should I be looking once I pull the panels? And can I patch this somehow from my garage, or is that exhaust shop welding?
There is puddy-like exhaust patching stuff at many auto part stores that is supposed to take the extreme temps. Like WB Weld, but for higher temp jobs.
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Old Sep 17, 2018 | 02:02 PM
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Originally Posted by Gville350
There is puddy-like exhaust patching stuff at many auto part stores that is supposed to take the extreme temps. Like WB Weld, but for higher temp jobs.
is it something like this: https://www.autozone.com/sealants-gl...ual/515553_0_0
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Old Sep 17, 2018 | 02:42 PM
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Originally Posted by Bichon
Check carefully to make sure that you don't have an exhaust leak, which is the most common reason for the P0420 code on this car. Usually it leaks at the Y-pipe, under the heat shield - which muffles the sound a bit. If so, this is something that an exhaust shop can fix reasonably inexpensively.
I have the same issue last year, but PO430 code instead which was leaking on the left pipe under the heat shield (below the driver seat). A local store cut the leaky part and solder a new piece pipe for $150. Problem disappeared since. Very common issue for IS250/350, the tech told me.
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