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P0420 Code 07 Prius 238k miles Bad Catalytic Converter?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by Babryans, Jul 3, 2018.

  1. Babryans

    Babryans Junior Member

    Joined:
    Mar 8, 2016
    2
    1
    0
    Location:
    Rochester mn
    Vehicle:
    2007 Prius
    Model:
    Four Touring
    I own an 07 Prius with 238k miles. Recently had the check engine light coming on and off for the past few months. We got a lot of rain and 2 weeks ago my master warning light came on along with CEL as I was slowly backing up in a parking lot. I ended up taking it to have codes tested...12v battery needed replacing and P0420 code thrown. I replaced the 12v battery and kept driving. Got the red triangle of death again and check engine light as I was backing out of the driveway the following day. I took it to the dealership...paid $125 for them to tell me it is indeed p0420 and that I needed to replace my catalytic converter. They quoted me about $2300 to replace, which sounds outrageous to me. I change my own oil and know my car burns more oil now than when I bought it at 165k, but I couldnt say exactly how much it is burning. I read on here that if your Prius is burning oil, then replacing the cat wont necessarily fix the problem. That it might be the engine.

    Question is-- what should I do? I have a local garage that could put a generic cat on for about $200 plus cost of the part, but is it worth it? Any reliable after market cats out there? Brands or links you could post?

    I would replace it myself but understand there is welding involved (beyond my realm of expertise). I see some labeled as direct fit and one was labeled no welding required, but there were no reviews. Anyone able to point me in the direction of what I should do first? Is it okay to keep driving short trips? I was planning on keeping this car for at least another 2 years. Thanks in Advance!
     
    blrose1228 likes this.
  2. blrose1228

    blrose1228 Junior Member

    Joined:
    Aug 7, 2007
    13
    4
    0
    Location:
    Maryland
    Vehicle:
    2007 Prius
    Model:
    II


    Have you gotten anywhere yet on replacing your catalytic converter yet. I'm in the same situation as you and will be interested in hearing what you have done to fix the problem. I just posted today with a couple of question of my own. Anything you learn and can pass on will be appreciated! TIA Bruce