Dodge Dakota - P0420 code

Maintenance/Repairs
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1

My 2005 Dodge Dokota 4.7L V8 152,000 miles has an intermitent check engine light (CEL) code P0420 (‘catalylst efficiency’) that turns itself off.

  1. 151,000 CEL on, code P0420, checked, cleared at dealer.
  2. 151,948 CEL on, code P0420, checked, cleared at dealer (Cat Conv est $800).
  3. 152,200 CEL on, code P0420, checked, cleared at local auto parts store.
  4. 152,597 CEL on. No checks.
  5. 152,815 CEL turned off on its own
  6. 152,849 CEL on. No checks.
  7. 153,137 CEL turned off on its own.

Twice in this time CEL has came on soon after a fill up from near empty.

Engine runs fine, 18-19 mpg highway.

Have seen numerous on-line reports of other possible causes:
a) base engine problems (coolant or oil) – coolant temp sensor
b) Air inleakage – air systems or manifold
c) Lazy front O2 sensor
d) fuel pumps
e) timing or misfire
f) what else? - (gas cap, other…)

Anyone have ideas on what to check first or categories to eliminate?

2

You’re at the hairy edge where that Check Engine light is going to turn on with that code, and it’s not going to turn off.

Catalytic converters don’t last forever.

Tester