Where in the engine is the catalytic converter

The 'Upstream' sensor is normally the one nearest the engine, before the catalytic converter.
The 'Downstream' sensor is the one furthest away from the engine after the catalytic converter, usually underneath the vehicle.
Another useful bit of information is on a 'V' engine if you stand with the engine belts and pulleys nearest to you and the transmission furthest away, Bank One is commonly the Left side and Bank Two is the right side.

The catalytic converter is the first bulbous box past the exhaust manifold.

2003 Ford Focus: The catalytic converter needs to be ...

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Jun 1, 2009 - I have seen a catalytic converter only (no pipes), a catalytic converter with a pipe that bolts onto the manifold? and other variations. Which ...

1 answer · Top answer: Hi, Ok, you have one converter, which bolts to the end of the exhaust [/topics-exhaust-ford/] ...
I have a 2003 Ford Focus ZX3, my engine light has been on ...
Feb 16, 2011
Codes p0420 and 0131 2012 Ford focus. I did and ur went off
Oct 25, 2019
I have a 2003 Ford Focus SE, manual, with over - JustAnswer
Sep 18, 2012
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It looks like this

https://www.carparts.com/catalytic-converter/ford/focus/2003

The PO420 code is a generic code indicating a problem with the catalytic converter system efficiency below threshold. This issue can be caused by several factors, including:

1. A clogged or failing catalytic converter
2. An exhaust leak before the catalytic converter
3. A malfunctioning oxygen sensor
4. Fuel system issues, such as a clogged fuel injector
5. Engine misfire
6. A damaged or failing ignition system
7. A vacuum leak

Here are the steps you can take to diagnose and fix the issue:

1. Check the catalytic converter: If the converter is clogged, it may need to be replaced.
2. Examine the exhaust system for leaks: Leaks before the catalytic converter can reduce its efficiency. If a leak is found, it should be repaired.
3. Replace the oxygen sensor: If the oxygen sensor is malfunctioning, it can cause the engine to run too rich or too lean, which can affect the catalytic converter.
4. Check the fuel system: Clogged fuel injectors can cause a lean fuel mixture, which can harm the catalytic converter. Have the fuel system checked and cleaned as necessary.
5. Repair any engine misfires: An engine misfire can damage the catalytic converter over time. Fix the misfire and see if the code returns.
6. Check the ignition system: A faulty ignition system can cause a misfire and damage the catalytic converter. Have the ignition system checked and repaired as needed.
7. Find and fix any vacuum leaks: Vacuum leaks can cause a lean fuel mixture and damage the catalytic converter.

It's best to have a mechanic diagnose the problem and perform the necessary repairs, as some of these repairs can be complicated and require specialized tools.

Four .
Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S Bank 1 Position 1)
Located in RH front pipe of the exhaust catalytic converter
--
Engine Controls Connector End Views in Engine Controls
Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S Bank 1 Position 2)
Located in RH rear pipe of the exhaust catalytic converter
--
Engine Controls Connector End Views in Engine Controls
Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S Bank 2 Position 1)
Located in LH front pipe of the exhaust catalytic converter
--
Engine Controls Connector End Views in Engine Controls
Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S Bank 2 Position 2)
Located in LH rear pipe of the exhaust catalytic converter

There are two ways a converter can fail:

• It can become clogged.
• It can become poisoned.

There really is no "inspection port" for the consumer or mechanic to see an actual clog in a converter. Often, the only way to tell if a catalytic converter is malfunctioning (plugged) is to remove it and check the change in engine performance. When a clogged converter is suspected, some mechanics temporarily remove the O2 sensor from the exhaust pipe ahead of the catalytic converter and look for a change in performance.
A catalytic converter relies on receiving the proper mix of exhaust gases at the proper temperature. Any additives or malfunctions that cause the mixture or the temperature of the exhaust gases to change reduce the effectiveness and life of the catalytic converter. Leaded gasoline and the over-use of certain fuel additives can shorten the life of a catalytic converter.
A catalytic converter can also fail because of:

• Bad exhaust valves on the engine
• Fouled plugs causing unburned fuel to overheat the converter

­Sometimes you can tell that a converter is clogged because you don't go any faster when you push the gas pedal. Also, there usually is a noticeable drop in gas mileage associated with a clogged catalytic converter. A partially clogged converter often acts like an engine governor, limiting the actual RPMs to a fast idle. A totally clogged converter causes the engine to quit after a few minutes because of all the increased exhaust back pressure.
The catalytic converter, like the rest of the emissions system, typically has a warranty length that exceeds the term of the warranty for the rest of a typical U.S. automobile.
Here is a safety reminder: Do not park your car over tall grass or piles of dry leaves. Your car's perfectly running catalytic converter gets very hot -- enough to start fires! You can keep it running well by keeping the ignition system in top shape, to prevent any unburnt fuel from entering the catalytic converter.

P0422 Buick - Catalyst below threshold.

Catalytic converter is clogged or out of medium.

Replace it.


ACTUAL DIAGNOSTIC:

Fault Code Definition
Code P0422 indicates that the Bank 1 Main Catalytic Converter's emissions efficiency has fallen below the minimum allowable limit. This threshold is tracked by a Catalyst Monitoring Oxygen Sensor located on or near the outlet of the Catalytic Converter.

Symptoms

* Check Engine Light will illuminate
* In many cases, no abnormal symptoms may be noticed

Common Problems That Trigger the P0422 Code

* Defective Catalytic Converter
* Engine misfires have damaged the Catalytic Converter
* Internal engine damage resulting in high oil consumption and/or a leaking Head gasket has damaged the Catalytic Converter

Common Misdiagnoses

* Oxygen Sensors are replaced when the real problem is a damaged Catalyst
* Catalyst is replaced when the real problem is internal engine damage, which is producing elevated emissions levels
* Catalyst is replaced when a misfiring engine is the real problem



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Catalytic Converter Removal & Installation 2.2L Engine To Remove:
Catalytic converter 2.2L engine

1. Raise and safely support the vehicle.
2. Disconnect the heated oxygen sensor (HO2S) electrical connector.
3. Remove the exhaust manifold pipe flange mounting nuts from the catalytic converter.
4. Remove the catalytic converter flange mounting nuts from the muffler.
5. Remove the catalytic converter from the muffler.
6. Remove the catalytic converter from the rear hanger bracket insulator.
7. Remove the catalytic converter.
8. Remove the (HO2S) from the catalytic converter.

To Install:

1. Install the (HO2S) to the catalytic converter.
2. Install a new gasket and the catalytic converter to the muffler.
3. Install catalytic converter to the catalytic converter hanger.
4. Install the catalytic converter flange mounting nuts to the muffler flange.
   • Tighten to 26 ft lbs (35 Nm).
5. Install the catalytic converter flange mounting nuts to the exhaust manifold pipe flange.
   • Tighten to 26 ft lbs (35 Nm).
6. Connect the heated oxygen sensor (HO2S) electrical connector.
7. Lower the vehicle.

------ Catalytic Converter Removal & Installation 4.3L Engine To Remove:

1. Raise and safely support the vehicle.
2. Raise and support the transmission.
3. Remove the transmission support
4. Disconnect the left and right pre-converter heated oxygen sensor (HO2S) electrical connector.
5. Disconnect the post-converter (HO2S) connector. Muffler flange and gasket
   
   
6. Remove the catalytic converter flange mounting nuts from the muffler.
7. Remove the catalytic converter from the muffler.
8. Remove the exhaust manifold flange mounting nuts from the catalytic converter. Catalytic converter 4.3L engine
   
   
9. Remove the catalytic converter from the support bracket insulator.
10. Remove the catalytic converter and gaskets.
11. Remove the heated oxygen sensor.

To Install:

1. Install the heated oxygen sensors as needed.
2. Install a new gasket and the Install the catalytic converter to the support bracket insulator.
3. Install the catalytic converter to the exhaust manifold flange. Install the mounting nuts.
   • Tighten to 39 ft lbs (53 Nm).
4. Using a new flange gasket, install the catalytic converter to the muffler. Install the mounting nuts.
   • Tighten to 30 ft lbs (40 Nm).
5. Connect the left and right pre-converter heated oxygen sensor (HO2S) electrical connectors.
6. Connect the post-converter (HO2S) electrical connector.
7. Install the transmission support.
8. Lower the transmission.
9. Lower the vehicle.

---
It looks like you can cut them and replace them with new bolts and nuts.

P0422 - Catalyst below threshold.

Catalytic converter is clogged or out of medium.

Replace it.


ACTUAL DIAGNOSTIC:

Fault Code Definition
Code P0422 indicates that the Bank 1 Main Catalytic Converter's emissions efficiency has fallen below the minimum allowable limit. This threshold is tracked by a Catalyst Monitoring Oxygen Sensor located on or near the outlet of the Catalytic Converter.

Symptoms

* Check Engine Light will illuminate
* In many cases, no abnormal symptoms may be noticed

Common Problems That Trigger the P0422 Code

* Defective Catalytic Converter
* Engine misfires have damaged the Catalytic Converter
* Internal engine damage resulting in high oil consumption and/or a leaking Head gasket has damaged the Catalytic Converter

Common Misdiagnoses

* Oxygen Sensors are replaced when the real problem is a damaged Catalyst
* Catalyst is replaced when the real problem is internal engine damage, which is producing elevated emissions levels
* Catalyst is replaced when a misfiring engine is the real problem



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dearship parts are high.you can buy a factory catalytic converter or universal converter cheaper at auto parts place.they basic the same parts the.dealership has same catalytic converter.they put their price and labor rate charge an hour your pocket book will be empty.i have used universal catalytic converter.had no problem with it.the only difference is universal converter body a little shorter.but has same lengh as factory.if check engine is coming on you cant turn it off .if computer showing you a code.you could have a misfire causing rich exhaust emission.that can ruin a catalytic converter have it scan.dealership charge you about $130.00 .you can have it scan at advance auto or auto zone.to see what pcm code is.it could be oxygen sensor somethinh minor.

P0422 - Catalyst below threshold.

Catalytic converter is clogged or out of medium.

Replace it.


ACTUAL DIAGNOSTIC:

Fault Code Definition
Code P0422 indicates that the Bank 1 Main Catalytic Converter's emissions efficiency has fallen below the minimum allowable limit. This threshold is tracked by a Catalyst Monitoring Oxygen Sensor located on or near the outlet of the Catalytic Converter.

Symptoms

* Check Engine Light will illuminate
* In many cases, no abnormal symptoms may be noticed

Common Problems That Trigger the P0422 Code

* Defective Catalytic Converter
* Engine misfires have damaged the Catalytic Converter
* Internal engine damage resulting in high oil consumption and/or a leaking Head gasket has damaged the Catalytic Converter

Common Misdiagnoses

* Oxygen Sensors are replaced when the real problem is a damaged Catalyst
* Catalyst is replaced when the real problem is internal engine damage, which is producing elevated emissions levels
* Catalyst is replaced when a misfiring engine is the real problem



Thanks for using FixYa - a 4 THUMBS rating is appreciated for answering your FREE question.