OBD-II diagnostic trouble code
P0431Safe to drive
Warm Up Catalyst Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 2)
The bank-2 warm-up catalyst (a smaller, close-coupled catalyst separate from the main one) isn't cleaning exhaust as effectively as it should.
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Code names are compiled from open/standardized SAE and ISO references. Explanations, symptoms, causes and fixes are original. Covers generic (P0/C0/B0/U0) codes only — manufacturer-specific codes are planned for a future update.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with P0431?
In most cases, yes — P0431 is generally not an urgent safety issue and the car is usually safe to drive for a while. Still, get it checked soon, since the underlying cause can affect fuel economy or emissions the longer it's left.
How much does it cost to fix P0431?
The cost varies too much by cause and vehicle to give a single figure here — a diagnosis will narrow it down.
What causes P0431?
Reviewed by Artyom SemenovAutomotive Editor · Fact-checked by Yauheni Kapliarchuk, Editor-in-Chief