Hello all,

I have a 2DR 01 Accord EX 2.3L 4 cyl. ULEV automatic (F23A4) with 150K miles. Everything is stock.

I recently got a diagnostic test since my CEL was on and need to change my catalytic converter and both oxygen sensors. I live in California and therefore need parts that meet the emission standards (CARB) for the state.

My mechanic quoted me just over $1,000 so I would like to save some money and do it myself. It does not look too difficult from the research Ive done.

I know DENSO is the OEM for the oxygen sensors and would like to get some (rather than BOSCH) but im not sure exactly what part number is the correct one. Websites dont clearly state if its California approved or not.

Im not sure what the OEM is for the catalytic converter. I found 2 brands that seem like they might work.
1) MAGNAFLOW DIRECT FIT PART#: 46615 and
2) CATCO DIRECT FIT PART#: D-280-78.

Are either any good? Will they affect the computer in any way? Can I change it myself or will it be better to take it to a shop? Should I just buy the parts from a Honda dealer (even though they are much more expensive)?

Im open to using other parts, these are just the ones Ive found. Alternatives are welcomed. I just want my car to run properly.

This is how the codes came cup:

- P0138: OXYGEN SENSOR CIRCUIT HIGH VOLTAGE BANK 1 SENSOR 2
- P0420: CATALYST SYSTEM EFFICIENCY BELOW THRESHOLD BANK 1
- P0136: OXYGEN SENSOR CIRCUIT BANK 1 SENSOR 2 (SEE P2270, P2271)

Sorry for the lengthy post and thanks for the help.

 

The rear oxygen sensor for your car should not be any different than a non-California emission 2001 Accord. Only the front air/fuel ratio sensor would be different. Your trouble code indicates the rear oxygen sensor. Here is a site with the rear Denso O2 sensor on sale. They are located in California (at least when I bought from them several years ago).

sparkplugs.com/more_info.asp?AAIA=1373194&pid=1825

You might want to change the rear O2 sensor first and drive it for awhile and see if the P0420 code will come back. Code P0420 is set based on the car's computer comparison of readings between the front air/fuel ratio sensor and rear O2 sensor.

I never heard of Catco; but, the Magnaflow is California emission compliant and should work.

 

Like redbull said, you could try changing the rear O2 sensor, clear the code and drive it, if the code come back (which it might be) then you might also have to change the cat.

 

Thanks for the quick respond guys, I will definitely try that. Hopefully that works and Ill only have to spend $35 rather than over $500.

I forgot to mention this, but my CEL will turn on and off occasionally. Does that happen with this kind of problem?

Thanks.

 

Yeah, that can turn on & off occasionally. But that part doesn't really prove sensor vs. cat. It just means the measurement is borderline & doesn't always fail.