P0420 on FORD TAURUS — Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1

Q: "What does P0420 mean on a FORD TAURUS?"

"P0420 indicates: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1. This is a emission controls code. 2 FORD TAURUS owners have reported this to NHTSA."

Q: "What are the most common causes of P0420 on FORD TAURUS?"

"Based on 2 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Engine, Unknown Or Other. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints."

Q: "Is P0420 serious on my FORD TAURUS?"

"Of 2 NHTSA reports for this code on FORD TAURUS, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic."

Q: "What should I do if my FORD TAURUS shows P0420?"

"1) Check for recalls on your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 2) Get a professional diagnosis — a code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. 3) Get 2-3 repair estimates to compare."

What P0420 Means on Your FORD TAURUS

P0420 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1. This code relates to the emission controls system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.

2 FORD TAURUS owners have reported this issue to NHTSA across model years 2013-2015. Most reports come from the 2013, 2015 model years. The most commonly reported component is Engine (50.0% of reports).

Real FORD TAURUS Owner Reports

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

"Please investigate this matter. I have reason to believe my car has a defeat, just like most 2013 police interceptor the were recalled due to code p0420. I went to AutoNation Ford Miami they said they have seen defects on my catalytic converter and I would like an investigation completed."

— 2013 FORD TAURUS owner · ENGINE · Filed 12/16/2023

"Me and numerous other taurus owners (2013-2019) are experiencing catalytic converter issues with the catalytic converter(s). The sensors are throwing code P0420 and/or P430. This tells us emissions aren't up to emissions standards."

— 2015 FORD TAURUS owner · UNKNOWN OR OTHER · Filed 09/16/2024

All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year

1

'13

1

'15

Common Causes on FORD TAURUS

Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

ENGINE 50%

UNKNOWN or OTHER 50%

What To Do Next

1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does P0420 mean on a FORD TAURUS? ▾

P0420 indicates: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1. This is a emission controls code. 2 FORD TAURUS owners have reported this to NHTSA.

What are the most common causes of P0420 on FORD TAURUS? ▾

Based on 2 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Engine, Unknown Or Other. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints.

Is P0420 serious on my FORD TAURUS? ▾

Of 2 NHTSA reports for this code on FORD TAURUS, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic.

What should I do if my FORD TAURUS shows P0420? ▾

1) Check for recalls on your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 2) Get a professional diagnosis — a code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. 3) Get 2-3 repair estimates to compare.