What does P0420 mean on a CHEVROLET CRUZE?

P0420 indicates: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1. This is a emission controls code. 7 CHEVROLET CRUZE owners have reported this to NHTSA.

What are the most common causes of P0420 on CHEVROLET CRUZE?

Based on 7 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Engine, Fuel/Propulsion System, Power Train,Engine. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints.

Is P0420 serious on my CHEVROLET CRUZE?

Of 7 NHTSA reports for this code on CHEVROLET CRUZE, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic.

What should I do if my CHEVROLET CRUZE shows P0420?

1) Check for recalls on your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 2) Get a professional diagnosis — a code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. 3) Get 2-3 repair estimates to compare.

P0420 on CHEVROLET CRUZE — Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1

What P0420 Means on Your CHEVROLET CRUZE

Real CHEVROLET CRUZE Owner Reports (Source: NHTSA Complaints Database)

"Vehicle has a faulty catalytic converters had the check engine light on got it tested the p0420 code issued."

— 2014 CHEVROLET CRUZE owner • FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM • Filed 05/18/2022

"I took my car into King Chevrolet last year around August. The car was overheating and the fan was running almost all the time. When they ran the diagnoses which I was charged 100 dollars for, they told me I had a loose plug. About 1 month after that, it started doing it again."

— 2014 CHEVROLET CRUZE owner • ENGINE • Filed 08/05/2021

"I have a code p0420 code and engine light keeps comeback on I had the catalytic converter replaced, and everything inspected by Friendship Chevrolet in Forestcity NC 28043. Kept my car for two weeks and still couldn’t find the problem of this p0420 code so my engine light stays on."

— 2014 CHEVROLET CRUZE owner • POWER TRAIN,ENGINE • Filed 09/22/2021

"I am have issues with the p0420 error code. i took the car to a mechanic who advised that the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. not believing what he said due to the car being fairly new. i went to auto zone to have the codes read and of course the code displays with the p0420 code."

— 2014 CHEVROLET CRUZE owner • FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM • Filed 05/22/2020

"Engine light came on at about 107000 miles. diagnosed as code p0420 catalytic converter efficiency low. replaced with aftermarket catalytic converter made by walker, but code did not clear. contacted gm customer care, was sent to elkins chevrolet."

— 2014 CHEVROLET CRUZE owner • ENGINE • Filed 06/19/2019

Data from NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. All reports are filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Common Causes of P0420 on CHEVROLET CRUZE

42.9%

28.6%

14.3%

Percentages based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

Complaint Trend by Year

2014

5

2015

1

2016

1

What To Do Next

1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if your vehicle is covered.
2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50-$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2-3 quotes. Dealer vs independent shop prices often differ 30-50% for the same repair.

What P0420 Means on Your CHEVROLET CRUZE

Real CHEVROLET CRUZE Owner Reports (Source: NHTSA Complaints Database)

Common Causes of P0420 on CHEVROLET CRUZE

Complaint Trend by Year

What To Do Next

P0420 on Other Vehicles