Engine Controls - DTC P0420 Service Manual Revision

SOURCE:
Honda Service News July 2004

TITLE:
S/M Fix: DTC P0420 Troubleshooting

APPLIES TO:
2003-04 Accord, 2003-04 Element

SERVICE TIP:
The troubleshooting procedure for DTC P0420 (catalyst system efficiency below threshold) in the 2003-04 Accord S/M and the 2003-04 Element S/M is wrong. It was written before we had the current software problem and the updated software to correct this DTC. Make this change in your copies of the appropriate S/M:

20030-4 Accord

Page 11-245, step 9: Change the text to read: Update the ECM/PCM software using the Honda Interface Module (HIM). Refer to Service Bulletin 03-063 for specific model application and procedural information.

2003-04 Element

Page 11-219, step 9: Change the text to read: Update the ECM/PCM software using the Honda Interface Module (HIM). Refer to Service Bulletin 03-031 for specific model application and procedural information.

Don't replace the catalytic converter unless the software has already been updated and DTC P0420 sets again; doing so wouldn't provide a lasting repair and could result in a warranty debit.