Hi all,

I've received the dreaded P0420 CEL on my 2014 Volvo XC60 with 144K miles on the engine. Took it to a trusted mechanic, where they tested the O2 sensors -- it's definitely a bad catalytic converter. Has anyone had any luck with replacing the Cats with a Magnaflow (MagnaFlow OEM Grade Federal / EPA Compliant Direct-Fit Catalytic Conve)? Obviously an OEM is preferable, but they are rediculously expensive.

I've heard that aftermarket cats aren't always as efficient as the OEM cat and can cause the CEL to come on every once in a while.

Looking forward to your thoughts. I've attached the mechanic report on the O2 sensors (blacked out identifying figures).

 

Did your shop also test the emissions to show that the cat is not doing its job? Normally the cat should last more than 140K miles - unless they get contaminated, which may be pointing to a bigger issue. Is your car consuming any oil or coolant that could have found its way onto the cat? Air leaks can also be a cause of the rear sensor reporting back with an out of range. If the emissions are still in spec, one temporary fix is to install a CEL-BOSS device. Its essentially a spacer for the rear O2 sensor to move it away from the main exhaust stream which can reduce the measured O2 amount avoiding the CEL. You can also use a CEL-BOSS with an aftermarket replacement if you get a P0420 code even with a replacement cat. If you cat is truly bad, eventually you will likely fail the emissions anyways...