Rep Power: 0

Hey guys, I have a 2002 Civic HX and I replaced my wideband upstream oxygen sensor a few months ago because it threw a CEL code. So I fixed that..

Now the CEL will come on for like a week or so and then it will shut off for a week or so..and keep doing that. The code is for the catalytic converter. So that tells me that it's right on the edge of being good and bad. I'm still getting great gas mileage and I really dont want to replace a $600 cat right now, so my question is..with my PA inspection up this month, how long does the CEL have to be off for it to pass emissions? (like is it a certain amount of time or miles etc)


Thanks

 
Rep Power: 517

You used an OEM sensor? I certainly hope so.

Sounds like the cat could be borderline, if the sensor was indeed OEM. Are there any exhaust leaks between the engine and the cat (cracked manifold)? That could cause false cat codes.

There are other checks that ought to be done to verify proper running condition, operation, and proper fuel control before just tossing a cat on. You certainly don't want to toast a new cat right away.

The CEL needs to be off for the test, that should be obvious. I don't know if there can be code data stored and still pass the test though. (Some people have said the ELD code causes them to fail a test, even though that code does not turn on the CEL on most cars.) Ask someone that knows the rules there.

All or most of the monitors must be set and passed before the test too. Every local seems to have different tests and rules. Ask someone in the know there.

Look in your owners manual index under EMISSIONS TESTING, STATE.
A scantool can read if the on-board monitors have all run or not.
Monitors all get reset to NOT READY when codes are cleared, and when the battery is disconnected. It must be driven through the drive cycles to set the monitors to READY. This is explained in your owners manual.

HTH

 
Rep Power: 0

Yes, I install a new OEM wideband sensor (~$180) to fix the first CEL.
Now, like you said it seems like the cat is borderline as to whether or not it throws a CEL. I don't believe there are any exhaust leaks.

 
Rep Power: 517

Well, I'd clear the codes, drive it through a few drive cycles, and use a scanner to be positive that enough monitors have passed and that no codes are pending or set.

Then head to the test center, and pray to the deity of your choosing.

 
Rep Power: 0

alright i guess i can try that.

are there any remedies for a cat that is borderline?

im pretty sure its the cat because i didnt replace the bad oxygen sensor for a few months after i got the CEL.

 
Rep Power: 517

The only true fix is to replace it with factory parts.
Anything else is only prolonging the inevitable.

Feel free to try whatever you want but I can't condone it, and don't hold your breath.

This guy scares me....
[autostream]http://autostream.com/ibcivicforums/?page_type=firebirdplayerthumbnail&framepage=1175& transactionid=1328046552-173167166182&posted_by=ezone_www.civicforums.com&y outube_video_id=5icTmYItwiE[/autostream]