2003 Hesitating/stumbling At Cruising Speed, Codes P1456, P0420 & P0430

todd

Test Drive
Hello all, My 03 xterra (3.3 Non SC) with 220,000 miles started hesitating/stumbling at cruising speed. it suddenly cleared up for a couple days and then started getting worse and starting shutting off at stop lights. I had codes read at AZ and they indicate a catalytic converter issue. Codes P0420 bank 1 and P0430 bank 2. After taking to the shop I looked closer at the print out from AZ and the very first code was a P1456 (Fuel tank temperature sensor circuit) and it says it could be a loose fuel cap. The vehicle is still at the shop so I couldn't check it. Could a loose fuel cap cause these symptoms?

Mechanic says it’s the front Catalytic converters. I am also wondering if the oxygen sensors could be causing these symptoms vs the front converters that cost $2000 to replace. (~$700 for each front converter). Additionally I have had knock sensor codes (P0327 and P0328) I have ignored for a couple of years. I found used converters at RockAuto for ~$350. If the converters are actually the issue is it worth taking a chance with used converters?

Thanks in advance for any recommendations.
 

TheCrabby1

I Smell Fishy
Supporting Member
Location
Burtonsville, Md
Hello , I don't know about the fuel cap but here's my converter story ; Went out on sat nite to a watering hole that's got dart board's.I played and drank ,had fun . When I started the X to go home the check engine light came on, well It's running alright so I think I'll be alright. About a mile before my exit it started sputtering, I think the light was blinking on the dash, a little foggy at this point . Then soon as I pull onto my exit the motor shut's off . I tried for about twenty minute's to restart but it wasn't happening:( Then I had to call the ole lady:mad: [ fate worst then a frontal lobotomy , felt the same:eek: ] to come pick me up . Anyway the motor sucked in some dust/fragment's from the upper converter that took the main bearing's out [ almost 0 oil pressure at idle ] and who know's about the ring's/valve's and other stuff in the motor. The X only had around 88,000 when one of these went and cost me a motor. The part that really sucked is they didnt know about the oil pressure until they replaced both cat's on one side $$$ then they figured out what else happened , more $$$ . Where the used converter's only taken outta the box and realized they were the wrong size , Id be a little Leary myself . Have a talk with your wallet and do what you think is right for your X. If my engine light come's on again I'll pull right over and call a tow truck !! I'd ask them to take a close look at the oil and oil pressure.
 
Top