P0420 on Dodge Journey
Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1
Methodology: Reviewed against the SAE J2012 generic DTC definition and NHTSA owner-complaint patterns, then scoped to Dodge Journey context without treating complaints as confirmed diagnoses.
Sources: SAE/OBD-II definitions, manufacturer service information, and public reliability reports (including NHTSA where applicable).
- SAE J2012 Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions — Generic diagnostic trouble code definition reference for P0420.
- NHTSA recalls, complaints, and manufacturer communications — Used to check public owner complaint context, recall status, and safety-related manufacturer communications by VIN or vehicle.
Limits: Guidance is informational and may not match every model-year or revision. Confirm with the official manual and diagnostics before replacing parts. For safety-critical or electrical work, use a qualified technician.
What P0420 Means on Your Dodge Journey
P0420 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1. This code relates to the emission controls system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.
Real Dodge Journey Owner Reports
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
"I have power door locks not working except manually or driver door by key. Key fob and door module for locks will not function. I cannot open the hatch due to power lock function."
"The radio will randomly turn stations and just completely go black. the a/c turns itself on and off. the airbag lights keep randomly coming up and then go away.this all happens rather i'm driving fast, slow, or stopped at a light and has happened since purchasing the car a year ago."
"At the end of jan/beginning of feb i contacted dodge cares with catalytic converter issue and my car was just at warranty of the that 30 miles from warranty and wanted them to give an extension because as soon as the light came on i could not get to the dealership."
"My check light came on and when I check the code which was a p0420, Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1). Emissions Recall U67: Catalytic Converter Efficiency. This was part of the recall. Therefore it doesn’t meet the CA emissions standard."
"The ETC warning light came on, then the car slowed down then stalled out and would not crank back up. Upon running a diagnostic, the following error codes displayed; P0420, P0340, P0197, P0117, P1D83, P2181(several codes showing up more than once showing permanent, pending)."
All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year
Common Causes on Dodge Journey
Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.
What To Do Next
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1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
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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.
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3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.