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2000 contour emission test


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buschman
Anonymous Poster
billsrepair.co5623@sbcglobal.net

Mar 10, 2008, 10:17 AM

Post #1 of 4 (2318 views)
2000 contour emission test Sign In

2000 ford contour, failed emission test, says "catalyst system efficiency below threshold {bank 1}" what and were is it?? thanks for any reply.......


way2old
Veteran / Moderator
way2old profile image

Mar 10, 2008, 3:45 PM

Post #2 of 4 (2312 views)
Re: 2000 contour emission test Sign In

Was the code a P0420? That is the converter that is attached to the exhaust manifold that connects to the head that houses number 1 spark plug. On your vehicle it is attached to the side next to the firewall. To properly diagnose the code, there are a lot of other variables that need top be addressed. So if you want to replace the converter on a guess it will fix, hey, it's your money. Proper diagnosis is the key to any automotive repair. You need to monitor several sensors and check fuel pressures and volume to be sure the code was not caused by some silly thing that seems not to have any relation to your code. Good luck.



Being way2old is why I need help from younger minds


Guest
Anonymous Poster

Mar 10, 2008, 10:37 PM

Post #3 of 4 (2305 views)
Re: 2000 contour emission test Sign In

Basically this means that the oxygen sensor downstream (after) the catalytic converter on bank 1 is detecting that the converter is not working as efficiently as it should be (according to specs). It is part of the vehicle emissions system.Causes
A code P0420 may mean that one or more of the following has happened:
  • Leaded fuel was used where unleaded was called for
  • An oxygen sensor is not reading (functioning) properly
  • The engine coolant temperature sensor is not working properly
  • Damaged exhaust manifold / catalytic converter / exhaust pipe
  • Retarded spark timing

Possible Solutions
The simplest thing to do is to reset the code and see if it comes back.
Next step is to measure the voltage at the oxygen sensor on Bank 1 (the rear sensor, or the sensor after the converter). The voltage should be low and steady (~200mV, depends on the vehicle). If the voltage varies (e.g. 100mV to 600mV) then it's time to replace the catalytic converter. In fact, it would be a good idea to test each oxygen O2 sensor while you're at it.
One thing to note is that many vehicle manufacturers offer a longer warranty on emissions-related parts. So if you have a newer car but it's out of it's bumper-to-bumper warranty, there still may be warranty on this type of problem. Many manufacturers give a five year, unlimited mileage warranty on these items. It's worth checking into.Always make sure that your car it safe to drive. Check your auto parts regularly.

(This post was edited by way2old on Mar 11, 2008, 4:10 PM)


way2old
Veteran / Moderator
way2old profile image

Mar 11, 2008, 3:50 PM

Post #4 of 4 (2289 views)
Re: 2000 contour emission test Sign In

Good information guest. To the original poster, the converter is warranted for 8 years or 80,000 miles.



Being way2old is why I need help from younger minds






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