2000 Maxima Catalytic Converter--CA

[nerbie0816]

I recently got a PO430 DTC code. I searched through a bunch of forums, and it looks like I have to replace my catalytic converter. I live in California. Would anybody know if I have to buy a catalytic converter that is "California licensed" so my car would pass the California smog test? Or, would any after market catalytic converter do the job, and pass the smog. Thanks.

[NissanTech]

Originally Posted by nerbie0816

I recently got a PO430 DTC code. I searched through a bunch of forums, and it looks like I have to replace my catalytic converter. I live in California. Would anybody know if I have to buy a catalytic converter that is "California licensed" so my car would pass the California smog test? Or, would any after market catalytic converter do the job, and pass the smog. Thanks.

Have you tried reprogramming the Engine Control Module (ECM)? sometimes reprograming the ECM with the latest program takes care of the P0430 code. It is suggested to reprogram the ECM after replacing the CC anyway.:

[nerbie0816]

I haven't tried reprogramming the ECM. How would I do that? Please advise. Thanks.

[sergey85]

call your dealer

[nerbie0816]

BTW, just a thought......is it a possibility that the "service engine" light might be a "false alarm?" If this is so, can I just reset the trouble code without replacing anything yet, and see what happens?

[sergey85]

yeah u can reset it but if the prblem is not fixed it will most lickly come back, but u can rest it and seef what happens

[tech22]

As far as the cats go,any muffler shop with a license can advise as to the correct cat to install.As NissanTech stated, the model you have would most likely need to have the ECM reprogrammed to clear-up any future problems.Check with your dealer as it goes by VIN# and ECM I.D.#

[nerbie0816]

A couple of days ago, the "service engine soon" warning light just disappeared (without me having to reset the system). It hasn't resurfaced so far. Does this mean, it was a false alarm, and nothing is wrong with my cat. converter? Thanks.

[kwan21]

Ironically, I have the same issue but I live in NJ. I need to replace my cat as well but I'm not sure if I need to replace all 3 cats or just the main one. Also, since I live in NJ, do I need to get a Cali legal cat or will any cat do???

[nerbie0816]

Hi Kwan21,

It is best to check with your mechanic as to which of the 3 catalytic converter is bad. I've read somewhere that usually the cat. converter that goes bad is the one closest to the engine (motor) since it gets extremely hot. As to installing a CA licensed cat. converter, I believe this is true only for CA because CA has very strict emmission laws. As I mentioned above, it would be beneficial to check with your mechanic.

[tech22]

Once you clear a code you must complete a "drive cycle" for the ECM to eather throw the same code or not.If the problem was not resolved then it will throw the same code again.