What is the P0431 fault code What is the Catalytic Convert Heater Efficiency Below Threshold description (Bank 2)? How can I fix the P0431 fault? What are the causes and symptoms of the P0431 error code?
What is the P0431 fault code? What does it all mean?
If the primary computer of your vehicle or the powertrain control module (PCM), detects that your catalytic converter has not been heating adequately and is not performing well, then code P0431 is triggered. “Bank 2” means that the fault occurred in an engine bank that does not contain the cylinder number 1.
The efficiency of catalytic converters is continuously monitored by up- and down oxygen sensors. These sensors are made up of zirconium dioxide sensing elements that are enclosed in perforated steel housings. These are connected to lead wires within the oxygen sensor wiring harnesses using platinum electrodes. The catalytic converter converts harmful oxides of Nitrogen (N2O), carbon Monoxide, and unburned Hydrocarbons into harmless ions. The engine exhaust heat and dense filtering mesh are used to accomplish this. Temperatures of the catalytic convertor must not exceed 800 degrees Fahrenheit.
The PCM uses oxygen sensor data to calculate ignition timings and fuel delivery strategies. If the voltage signal from your oxygen sensor is lower that it should, this means there is too many oxygen (lean mixture). If the voltage signal from the oxygen sensor is higher than normal, it indicates that the vehicle is using a poor mixture of oxygen and exhaust.
The PCM constantly monitors both O2 sensors and compares their frequencies. These data are used to calculate fuel delivery strategy, ignition timing, and other things. The PCM stores the P0431 fault code if it detects that the voltage signals for the up and the down oxygen sensors match.
What is the P0431 Fault Code?
The most common cause of code P0431 is a defective catalytic converter. A misfiring engine can cause damage to the catalytic converter. They can malfunction from poor or rich operating conditions, engine oil contamination, or any other reason.
- – Defective catalytic convertor
- Faulty oxygen sensor that isn’t working correctly
- – Connectors and cables that have been damaged, burnt, corroded, or are no longer in use
- – Good or bad working conditions
- – Exhaust Leakage
What are the symptoms of P0431 Trouble code?
Based on the severity, other fault codes may be stored. Different symptoms will be experienced depending on the reason for the malfunction. The vehicle may not be able to start if the efficiency of the catalytic converter has dropped. If the catalytic conversion is defective or damaged, the engine could not start correctly or at all. You may experience the following symptoms when you are dealing with code P0431:
- – Illumination at the check engine lights
- – Lower engine performance
- – Unregular idle speed while the engine is cold
- – Increased fuel consumption
How do I fix the P0431 fault code?
- – Make sure to inspect all cables and electrical connectors connected to the catalytic conversion for any signs of corrosion or malfunctions.
- – All broken or defective parts of the catalytic convert must be replaced or repaired.
- – Repair of exhaust leaks.
- – Measure the voltage at bank 2 for oxygen sensors and replace it if it’s faulty. It is safer to test all O2 sensors.
- – Replace the damaged catalytic converter with a new one.
How Serious Is the P0431 Fault Code
There are many symptoms that code P0431 may indicate. They can be severe or mild. The worst case scenario is that the engine stops working and dies. Failure to promptly address the fault code can lead to stress on the catalytic convertor and eventual failure. It is important to immediately address the P0431 fault code.
