Finally got my CEL checked out and it's the P0420 code (Catalytic Converter Efficiency Below Threshold). I've done a bit of research and see that there is a sizable list of small issues that can cause it. What have you done to remedy the code? If you don't do it yourself, which shop did you take it to that knows well enough to properly diagnose the true cause of the code being thrown?
http://www.stromungexhaust.com/subaru.html Check out these guys. They are one of the few that deals in aftermarket forester exhasut parts for NA foresters.
Exhaust from Stromung would quickly add up to the cost of my entire vehicle. I think that's a little out of the question lol.
I had an 02 N/A Impreza that would throw that code a couple times a year. I'd have it cleared for free at Autozone and go on my merry way. It never had any noticeable effect.
buy replacement on rockauto/amazon/anywhere, take to Wonderful Muffler Man on Rice Street for install. Don't be a dick like I am with the subaru, run a cat.
As I see you're still looking for a fix for said code, from what I understand it could be caused by several things including, but not limited to: bad downstream O2 sensor, clogged/bad catalytic converter, loose gas cap, even a bad tank of gas. I'm sure there are other gremlins that cause that code as it's very common. For the issues listed: If the car runs fine then I wouldn't worry. Clear the code and see how long it takes to come back. If it does, yet continues to run normally then start with an anti-fouler on the rear O2 sensor and tighten your gas cap, maybe change your fuel filter. If it's a clogged cat, you'd notice it running poorly. If it's just a dying, but still free flowing cat, it's not worth the very expensive fix to replace the cat. The anti-fouler can take care of the reading. Anyway, these are the things I found when I was looking into that code. I gather that actually having a bad cat is less likely that some of the other possibilities. My car ran fine, so, again, I kept going on my merry way, occasionally clearing the code. *edit* I agree with derp insofar that emulating him in general is not the way to go, lol.
I won't be running without one. No worries Derp, your crown is safe. @sneefy The cat seems more than fine. I have had one clog on me before and am familiar with the symptoms. I'd say the 24-27mpg I'm getting is plenty peace of mind for that. I currently plan to try the non-fouler on the 2nd sensor and clearing the code. Thanks for the quick research!
