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P0420 on SUBARU OUTBACK

Severity
Medium
NHTSA Reports
2
Most Affected
2011, 2012

What P0420 Means on Your SUBARU OUTBACK

Real SUBARU OUTBACK Owner Reports (Source: NHTSA Complaints Database)

"P0420 code o2 sensors. i had this problem back in 2017. cruise, skid control, brake light and check engine light come on. subaru said it was the catalytic converter, 02 sensors and associated piping. subaru replaced it for free in 2017."

— 2011 SUBARU OUTBACK owner • FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM • Filed 08/02/2019

"The contact's girlfriend owns a 2012 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that the vehicle hesitated while starting. In addition, the contact attempted to jumpstart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to start. The check engine warning light was intermittently illuminated."

— 2012 SUBARU OUTBACK owner • ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS • Filed 06/15/2019

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 SUBARU OUTBACK

50%
50%

Percentages based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

Complaint Trend by Year

2011
1
2012
1

What To Do Next

  1. 1
    Check for recalls on YOUR VIN

    Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if your vehicle is covered.

  2. 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. 3
    Compare repair quotes

    Get 2-3 quotes. Dealer vs independent shop prices often differ 30-50% for the same repair.

P0420 on Other Vehicles

Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (U.S. Department of Transportation) and the SAE J2012 OBD-II standard. Code definitions follow the SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 standard. Owner reports are filed directly with NHTSA by vehicle owners. This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not replace professional automotive diagnosis. Always consult a qualified mechanic for vehicle repair decisions.

Last updated: March 2026