Fault code P0433 – heated catalyst efficiency below threshold (Bank 2)

Fault code P0433 is called “Heated Catalyst Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 2)” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.

Technical description and explained code P0433

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a generic code. Error P0433 is considered a generic code because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles. Although the specific repair steps may vary slightly depending on the model.

Fault code P0433 – heated catalyst efficiency below threshold (Bank 2)

The vehicle’s catalytic converter (catalyst) helps reduce exhaust emissions by oxygenating them. It helps convert hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into water vapor (H₂O), carbon dioxide (CO₂) and nitrogen (N).

The PCM (transmission control module) monitors the efficiency of the catalyst with an oxygen sensor after the catalyst. This sensor is used primarily for this purpose. It should switch much slower than the front oxygen sensors.

Nowadays, in cars with emission control systems, heated oxygen sensors are used. The purpose of the heating element built into the oxygen sensor is to bring the sensor up to operating temperature faster.

After that, the emission control will start working. The engine control module (PCM) monitors the temperature. And if there is a malfunction, this error code P0433 is set.

This occurs when the PCM detects that the heated sensor O₂ after the catalyst is switching too slowly. Or if there is no change between the input and output of the catalytic converter.

Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions

The main signal that an error P0433 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.

It can also be warning signs such as:

  1. Check engine control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be recorded in the memory as a malfunction).
  2. The engine stops or starts badly.
  3. Decrease of the engine power.
  4. Increased fuel consumption.
  5. Increased emissions of harmful substances from the exhaust pipe.
  6. Sometimes there may be no symptoms, despite the stored fault code.

This error is considered moderate if there are no symptoms. But if symptoms are present, the cause of the P0433 error should be corrected as soon as possible. Ignoring it can cause serious damage to the catalytic converter.

Factors that can cause this error code

The error code P0433 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:

  • Bad or non-functional catalytic converter.
  • Faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Engine is not running at optimum air/fuel ratio.
  • Engine leaks in front of catalytic converter.
  • Ignition skips in engine cylinders.
  • Damaged wires and connectors.
  • Problems with manifold air pressure sensor.
  • Air flow sensor has failed.
  • Faulty fuel pressure regulator.

How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P0433

Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P0433:

  1. Inspect the sensor wires near the catalytic converter.
  2. Check the oxygen sensors.
  3. Repair any leaks in the engine.
  4. Test the air flow sensor as well as the manifold air pressure.
  5. Check the fuel pressure regulator.
  6. If no problems are found, check the catalytic converter and replace it if necessary.

Diagnose and repair of problems

Error P0433 is diagnosed with a standard OBD-II scanner. Use the scan tool to view the data and gather information about the code. Also to check other error codes that may be present.

Then clear the error codes from the PCM memory and recheck the system to see if the P0433 error appears again. If the code disappears, it may indicate an intermittent error or that the code appeared in error.

Checking the catalytic converter and leaks

Check for exhaust leaks, repair them if necessary. Inspect all electrical connections that are connected to the oxygen sensor. Sometimes due to heat and vibration, the electrical connector may disconnect and the engine error indicator light will come on.

If a code is found, check the operation of the oxygen sensors to make sure they are working properly. Compare the displayed output signals with the values indicated in the manual.

Read the inlet temperature reading of the transducer and then the outlet temperature reading. The difference between the input and output temperatures should be about 100°F. If the temperature difference approaches 200°F or reaches 500°F. Most likely the catalytic converter is damaged.

Test the oxygen sensor, inspect the wires

Check the wiring harness that goes to the oxygen sensor. It’s important to make sure there are no burned out, torn or severely loose spots. Which could hit any moving component while the car is in motion.

Check the operation of the O₂ sensor by thoroughly warming up the engine. Remember that the sensor will work only after it has reached its operating temperature.

Connect the sensor output to a multimeter and start the engine at about 2000-2500 rpm. The output should show a voltage fluctuating between 0.1 and 0.9 V. If the sensor output does not change or the response time is too long. This means that you have a bad oxygen sensor, you should replace it.

Oxygen sensor O₂ replacement will most likely correct the error. But sometimes, you need to replace the catalytic converter to fix the problem. Also, inspect other components of the vehicle to determine the cause of catalytic converter damage.

If code P0433 is combined with other codes, try to correct the other codes first.

On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently

Fault code P0433 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:

  • Audi
  • Chevrolet (Equinox, Silverado)
  • Dodge (RAM)
  • Ford (Escape)
  • GMC
  • Honda
  • Mercedes-Benz (SLK230)
  • Nissan
  • Toyota
  • Volkswagen
  • GAZelle (Valdai)
  • MAZ

Fault code P0433 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P0430, P0431, P0432, P0434, P0435, P0436, P0437, P0438, P0439, P0466, P1747.

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