Trusted Local Auto
TRUSTEDLOCALAUTO
PowertrainWarning

P0430: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 2)

The downstream oxygen sensor on bank 2 is reading too similarly to the upstream sensor, which means the catalytic converter is no longer scrubbing exhaust gases efficiently. The car will still drive, but it will fail an emissions test (in provinces that still test) and the catalyst will keep degrading until it's replaced.

Can I keep driving?
Generally safe to keep driving — fix when convenient.
DIY difficulty
shop-only
Best handled by a qualified shop.
Typical cost (Canada)
$800 – $2,500 CAD
Parts + labor; varies by shop & vehicle.
Common causes

What usually triggers P0430?

  1. 1Aged or failed catalytic converter on bank 2
  2. 2Worn or contaminated downstream O2 sensor
  3. 3Active engine misfire sending raw fuel into the exhaust
  4. 4Exhaust leak before or between O2 sensors
  5. 5Coolant or oil leak into combustion chamber poisoning the catalyst

Causes are listed roughly in order of how often they're seen on Canadian independent-shop tickets. Always confirm with a scan-tool freeze-frame and a circuit/sensor check before replacing parts.