Cannot resolve code P0420

Good morning.

What brand catalytic converter did you use for the replacement?

The noise could be a valve tap from a valve issue with the motor. You need to have that checked as it may be causing a misfire and that will overheat the catalytic converter and cause the code as well.

Roy

P0420
Descriptor
Engine Controls
Probable Causes
Catalytic Converter
Catalytic Converter Bank 1 Blocked
Catalytic Converter Bank 1 Damaged
Diagnose Other DTCs First
Engine Misfire Detected
Engine Oil or Coolant Consumption Excessive
Exhaust Leak
Exhaust System Damaged
Exhaust System Hardware Loose or Missing
Fuel Mixture Lean
Fuel Mixture Rich
Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) Bank 1 Sensor 2
Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) Bank 1 Sensor 2 Damaged
Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) Bank 1 Sensor 2 Loose
Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) Bank 1 Sensor 2 Pigtail or Wiring Harness Contacting Exhaust or Ground
Oxygen Sensor (O2S) or Wiring Harness Damaged
Three Way Catalytic Converter (TWC) Does Not Meet Manufacturer Specifications
Weak or Poor Spark

I do not think it is valve tap as I only hear it when I am above about 2,500-3,000 rpm's and it is not very loud but, the converter I put on is from eBay and I think it is this exact one.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/2004-2005-2006-Pontiac-Grand-Prix-3-8L-Direct-Fit-Catalytic-Converter-/253764966466?hash=item3b15921842

Okay.

It looks like this one does not have enough precious metals to keep the light out. That is the issues with the cheap converters.

Walker and Bosal are the only ones we use due to come backs from the 420 returning.

Roy

But the lack of quality of the converter should not be causing the car to accelerate slow and strangely would it? The car also seems to show all the symptoms listed here for a bad MAF sensor.

https://www.carsdirect.com/car-repair/how-to-tell-if-you-have-a-faulty-mass-airflow-sensor?src=20&lnk=eyzsD2QGsYg-jBWJdbuvzn%2Fj4mDqmhlHtw

Yesterday I unplugged the senor and drove it down the street to see if there was a difference in how it accelerates and it seemed to be running the same.

Thanks

Okay, the original question was your 420 code. We through that the sluggish.

I would start by doing a fuel pressure test to be sure you have enough fuel for the injectors to work correctly.

also, I would do a compression test to see if there is a issue with the timing chain.

Roy

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

I have tested the car with a scanner and it says all sensors and systems passed except the EVAP system, but I do not have any codes related to it. Do you think a bad solenoid or vapor canister could be causing these problems?
Thanks again.

They are only monitors. That does not mean there is no problems with those systems.

You need to do the two tests I suggested in my previous answer.

Roy

ASEMASTER6371, how does one know if a cat has enough precious metals?

I believe all catalytic converters have precious metals, here is more information:

Catalytic converters are devices used in the exhaust systems of vehicles to reduce harmful emissions by catalyzing various chemical reactions.

Platinum (Pt):

Palladium (Pd):

Rhodium (Rh):

These precious metals are often supported on a ceramic or metal substrate

KEN L - Thank you for your reply. ASEMASTER6371 mentioned that the cat may not have enough precious metals to keep the light out. I am looking for a new cat and I don't see anywhere where the seller states "how much" precious metals are used. I am "assuming" that if it is either EPA or CARB compliant, they have sufficient metals in them. I could be wrong, thus my question.

It seems like you're talking about catalytic converters for vehicles. Catalytic converters are emission control devices that contain precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These metals help convert harmful pollutants in exhaust gases into less harmful substances. The effectiveness of a catalytic converter is indeed dependent on the presence and quality of these precious metals.

When it comes to purchasing a catalytic converter, especially if you're looking for a replacement, there are a few key points to consider:

EPA and CARB Compliance: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulate emission standards for vehicles in the United States. Catalytic converters that are EPA or CARB compliant meet specific emissions requirements and generally contain the necessary amount of precious metals to effectively reduce pollutants.

Seller's Information: Reputable sellers of catalytic converters often provide information about the metals used in their products. This can include details about the type and quantity of precious metals present in the catalytic converter.

OEM vs. Aftermarket: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) catalytic converters are those made by the same manufacturer as your vehicle. These are typically more reliable in terms of emissions control. Aftermarket catalytic converters may vary in quality and effectiveness, so it's important to research and choose a reputable brand.

Warranty: Consider purchasing catalytic converters that come with warranties. This indicates that the manufacturer stands by the quality of their product.