cars throwing a p0420 code, its cal registered and its intermittent. if i dont step on it to go places the code wont throw right?

 

Have youlooked up the code?

 

Just a quick search and I found it to be related to the catylitac (sp) converter. Maybe it needs replacing, or gutting....

 

If it's registered in Cali and you have a P0420 you're going to get reamed if you need to have it inspected. It's possible that the O2 Sensor is just going out. Check for any exhaust leaks and get both bank 1 sensors tested to make sure they're both reading properly.

 

ok. i have a scanner can it somehow test that?

 

also how could i tell if thats the problem?

 

The scanner, unless it's a full fledged diagnostic tool is just going to give you the code. You need to probe the back sides of the O2 sensors with a volt meter to test them. The first sensor should give you a rapidly changing voltage, the aft-cat O2 should give you a steady voltage.

 

ok last question: im assuming the car has to be running when i do that... how much do you think a new one should be b/c apw has one for 90. thanks for the help slvr i really appreciate it.

 

Yes it has to be running to do this. That is how you know it is working right. A new what? O2 sensor is about $50. New cat is expensive or as cheap as you want.

 

i tired to check both my O2 sensors but couldnt figure out how. do i unplug them and stick the + and - of my voltmeter into two of the four leads or do i put the voltmeters connectors into the thing that the sensor plugs into? also what should the voltmeter be set to? 20V? cause cars run off of 12 V right?