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PO430 SES code, how much of an issue?

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Old 05-19-2010, 10:40 AM
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Default PO430 SES code, how much of an issue?

My car came up with this code last week showing low cat efficiency in bank one. The light went off after a few days, but it just popped up again while idling on the way to work today. I'd assume this means that I have a bad cat, but my idle is smooth and the car drives just fine. Gas mileage seems average but I will do the math next time I fill up to be sure.

Is this worth worrying about? Also, the car is an '02 with 90k, so I was wondering if the warranty would still cover it if it is a bad cat.
Old 05-19-2010, 10:54 AM
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Also, I just had the car Maryland state inspected last week and it passed just fine with the light on. The inspection checklist was quite in depth, and included cat function and the AIR system.
Old 05-19-2010, 10:59 AM
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Yeah you definitely have a failing cat. It may not be an issue now but will become one if that cat fails and then clogs up. There is a gm service bulletin on this issue. The details of it are on this site somewhere. If you decide to get it fixed and it will be under warranty be sure to give the dealer the service bulletin #. Otherwise they might say we have no clue what you are talking about. That's what happened to me I gave them the # then and only then did they even offer to fix it for free.
Old 05-19-2010, 11:11 AM
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Originally Posted by StreetLethal
My car came up with this code last week showing low cat efficiency in bank one. The light went off after a few days, but it just popped up again while idling on the way to work today. I'd assume this means that I have a bad cat, but my idle is smooth and the car drives just fine. Gas mileage seems average but I will do the math next time I fill up to be sure.

Is this worth worrying about? Also, the car is an '02 with 90k, so I was wondering if the warranty would still cover it if it is a bad cat.
That means one of two things, 1st - your O2's may be going out, making your PCM think it is your cat, when in fact it isn't. 2nd - that your cat is actually taking a dump on ya. I too am getting that code, but I've already changed all 4 of my O2's. You can run as is for a short while, but I wouldn't suggest doing it long term b/c it makes your car run in "Limp Mode." By default, you car will not run as efficiently b/c it changes the a/f ratio of your vehicle.

Some people will suggest "gutting" your cat, but the problem with that is then you have a huge void in the middle of your exhaust, not a good thing. I would suggest bitting the bullet and getting an aftermarket cat. Magnaflow has some good direct fit's for around $200 on ebay, or you can try a weld-in high flow set up. Those are around $40 each without shipping. Good luck.
Old 05-19-2010, 11:49 AM
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It's the cat, and covered for 10yrs/120K on your car.
Old 05-19-2010, 12:05 PM
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Thanks guys, I'm looking for the service bulletin now...
Old 05-19-2010, 12:19 PM
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Yep, had mine replaced free of charge last year after throwing the same code and showing them the bulletin.
Old 05-19-2010, 12:23 PM
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Anybody have any info on the bulletin? I was looking for it before to help someone else out and couldn't find it.
Old 05-19-2010, 12:25 PM
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Found that bulletin on Edmunds.com, it's #05513 for reference. Looks like I should be in good shape, I'll be stopping by the dealer tomorrow.
Old 05-19-2010, 12:26 PM
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Originally Posted by 2001NBMZ28
It's the cat, and covered for 10yrs/120K on your car.
^^^I agree, it's more than likely the cat, sorry I forgot to mention the part about the warranty.
Old 05-19-2010, 12:31 PM
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Can you please post the link on Edmunds? I am having trouble finding it. Thanks.
Old 05-19-2010, 12:38 PM
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Originally Posted by RobRomero
Can you please post the link on Edmunds? I am having trouble finding it. Thanks.
Sure, it's the second bulletin; under "other".

http://www.edmunds.com/maintenance/r...b&serviceType=
Old 05-19-2010, 12:49 PM
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https://ls1tech.com/forums/5961624-post7.html

https://ls1tech.com/forums/5963138-post10.html
Old 05-19-2010, 01:27 PM
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I've printed a copy of that just in case the dealer gives me a hard time, thanks.
Old 05-19-2010, 02:04 PM
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Grrrrrrrrr.......I'm at 130K.
Old 05-19-2010, 02:04 PM
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Originally Posted by StreetLethal
I've printed a copy of that just in case the dealer gives me a hard time, thanks.
Let us know how it goes. I've heard of Dealers not wanting to honor it (not knowing anything about it), so having a print out should help.
Old 05-19-2010, 02:12 PM
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Originally Posted by RobRomero
Grrrrrrrrr.......I'm at 130K.
That sucks bro. I'm hoping if it happens to me that it does before 120K.

I'm at 94K
Old 05-19-2010, 05:33 PM
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Originally Posted by ROCNDAV
That sucks bro. I'm hoping if it happens to me that it does before 120K.

I'm at 94K
True that. This suxxxxxxxx
Old 05-20-2010, 09:02 PM
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Took that car to the dealer today. The guy was a bit hesitant at first because it was a
"special issue" and my printout was from an "aftermarket website", but he said that as long as it matches up in his system, he'll do the work. He called me back later and they will be getting the part in tomorrow morning, and should have it ready in the afternoon.

I'm glad I brought in the reference to the service bulletin, though. I think they would have given me quite a hard time without it.
Old 05-20-2010, 11:21 PM
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Awesome


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