The Dreaded P0420 Code - I've read the other threads,

[nate8]

So, I have a 2002 4runner with 161,000 miles. I've replaced the power steering pump & o2 sensors. Other than that it's been free of problems.

The CEL came on so I took to a trusted friend at the dealership and he said it's the cats. He told me each cat is around 1400 bucks (3k total).

I have another buddy that runs an auto shop and he said he can replace both cats for $750 but they would be aftermarket cats. I want to keep this car as long as possible because i love it so much.

Are aftermarket cats good for 2-3 years? What do you guys think.

***NOTE*** I've read the other P0420 threads... lots of great info, just wanted to follow up with this story. I'm new here, so if this is breaking the rules please let me know.

Love this site. thanks

 

[BrianSD_42]

There are no rules against new threads .... It's good that you read the others because some Sr members get tired of reposting the same links over and over again so they just stop.

 

[MStudt]

So, I have a 2002 4runner with 161,000 miles. I've replaced the power steering pump & o2 sensors. Other than that it's been free of problems.

The CEL came on so I took to a trusted friend at the dealership and he said it's the cats. He told me each cat is around 1400 bucks (3k total).

I have another buddy that runs an auto shop and he said he can replace both cats for $750 but they would be aftermarket cats. I want to keep this car as long as possible because i love it so much.

Are aftermarket cats good for 2-3 years? What do you guys think.

***NOTE*** I've read the other P0420 threads... lots of great info, just wanted to follow up with this story. I'm new here, so if this is breaking the rules please let me know.

Love this site. thanks

I would personally have no issues installing aftermarket cats on my 4runner. Some things are worth paying the extra money for the trust Toyota parts, but not exhaust. You should be able to get a lot more than 2-3 years from an aftermarket cat as well. I've seen people get over 10 years on aftermarkets, not uncommon.

 

[Loyal Toyota]

Lowered Gas Mileage

I've got a Catco OEM spec aftermarket cat installed on my truck close to 2 years ago. I had my original stolen off of my truck.

I've been experiencing 2-3 miles less per gallon under my regular driving conditions. Winter MPGs are 10 city 19-20 highway. Summer MPGs are 13 city and 20-22 highway.

My highway mileage are the same, but city used to be winter 13 and summer 16. All maintenance up to date and ran a can of BG44K. I'm thinking of cleaning the MAF and replacing my O2 sensors. I had to drive it for 50 miles without the cat and it went through the whole tank.

No check engine lights though and nothing out of the ordinary. My two cents.

 

[nate8]

I've got a Catco OEM spec aftermarket cat installed on my truck close to 2 years ago. I had my original stolen off of my truck.

I've been experiencing 2-3 miles less per gallon under my regular driving conditions. Winter MPGs are 10 city 19-20 highway. Summer MPGs are 13 city and 20-22 highway.

My highway mileage are the same, but city used to be winter 13 and summer 16. All maintenance up to date and ran a can of BG44K. I'm thinking of cleaning the MAF and replacing my O2 sensors. I had to drive it for 50 miles without the cat and it went through the whole tank.

No check engine lights though and nothing out of the ordinary. My two cents.

This is great news! I had some concerns because I've usually got the toyota parts....

Thanks again.