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BM Catalysts highlights the importance of understanding fault codes

Europe’s leading manufacturer of hot-end emissions products, BM Catalysts, is placing a spotlight on the importance of understanding vehicle fault codes, particularly error code P0420, the most common error code dealt with by dedicated technical and support teams within BM Catalysts.

Fault codes, otherwise known as Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTCs), are stored by a vehicle’s On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) system, when a potential issue is detected, they provide invaluable insight into what is affecting a vehicle’s performance. However, they do not pinpoint an exact defective part. Instead, they act as an early warning sign for underlying problems that, if ignored, could lead to costly damage to components such as catalytic converters (CATs) and diesel particulate filters (DPFs).

Amongst the error codes BM Catalysts technical/support team can encounter, P0420 – Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1) is by far the most frequent. This code indicates that the catalytic converter is not performing as efficiently as expected, based on reading from the oxygen sensors positioned before and after the catalyst. However, a P0420 code does not necessarily mean the catalytic converter itself is at fault. In fact, there are a number of variables that can be attributed as the root cause, including exhaust leaks, engine misfires, defective oxygen systems, fuel injector problems or contamination of the catalyst.

James Saunders, Technical Director at BM Catalysts said: “Error codes like P0420 are a reminder that diagnosis must go beyond replacing a part. They highlight issues elsewhere in the engine system that, if left unresolved, can shorten the lifespan of a new catalytic converter.

“By educating the market on these codes, we are helping workshops and distributors make accurate decisions, avoid unnecessary replacements, and ultimately provide a better service to their customers”. He added.

BM Catalysts stresses that understanding and addressing fault codes promptly is essential not only for resolving immediate issues but also for protecting the long-term health of emissions control systems. By combining robust technical resources, dedicated customer support and high-quality components, BM Catalysts continues to provide technicians and distributors with the tools they need to diagnose effectively and fit with confidence.

To find out more about fault codes and download our technical advice resources, visit bmcats.com.

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Mansfield
Nottinghamshire
NG18 5DL

VAT number: 290 8703 83

Company registration number: 1673421