OBDII (On Board Diagnostics Second Generation) systems are required by Federal law on all passenger cars and light trucks manufactured since 1996. It is a computer on board the vehicle that monitors the engine and emission control equipment to verify that all systems are working properly. If the monitor detects a fault, a code is stored in the computer, and the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) is illuminated.
It is important to remember that if your “Check Engine Light” illuminates and someone just simply reads a code of PO420, 421, 430 or 431 this does not necessarily mean the Catalytic Converter is bad! All that code says is either Converter operating below efficency or Converter operating below threshold. Nowhere in the interpretation of that code does it say the converter is bad.
Your vehicle may very well need a Catalytic Converter but to determine this, your mechanic or technician should perform proper engine diagnostics. Just reading a simple code is NOT considered performing diagnostics. The following material should give you a better understanding of what proper diagnostics consist of and how they should be performed. If after reading the material below you still have questions please give us a call, 888-651-0770, and we will do all we can to help you solve the problem.
Following is a complete Diagnostic Manual in helping you diagnose and troubleshoot problems with a vehicles emission system and the possible replacement of emission parts including the catalytic converter.
APPLIES TO: Kia All OBDII models