OBD II code p0442

kaneco · Post by **kaneco** » 07 Oct 2010, 21:25

Got this code on my '98 v70xc. Please help.

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 07 Oct 2010, 22:33

That is a cat converter "below efficiency" code. Depending on your smog rules you might be able to add a spacer to the rear O2 sensor to trick it, or replace the O2 Sensor, or replace the cat. This is a point where a scanner with real time data is very helpful.

...Lee

jonesboy1983 · Post by **jonesboy1983** » 08 Oct 2010, 08:54

Perhaps the codes are different for different models but I know on the S70 this is a fairly common code when there is a small leak in the J hose near the charcoal filter.

I've not replaced mine but it looks to be a fairly simply fix.

Post by **jblackburn** » 08 Oct 2010, 09:02

That's an EVAP small leak code, jonesboy is right on the money with the J-hose as the first suspect.

Your charcoal canister should be accessible from the left front fender - you'll have to get up under the car and remove the bracket to see what's going on with it.

adk793 · Post by **adk793** » 08 Oct 2010, 21:06

I had the same exact code show up in my 2000 V70 XC starting at about 96K miles. After talking with various volvo experts, its most likely not the cat converter. If anything, its the O2 senor starting to go but take my word on this""dont worry about it. When this happened to me, my first reaction was to clear the code and wait and see. It came back a week later so i cleared it again. Then a month went by before it showed up. Cleared it again, 1-2 months went by. Your case may be different, but i was pretty confident it wasnt my cat at 95K miles. I just kept clearing the code every time it showed up once in a while. Then when 101K miles came around and i had to sell the car, it passed smog inspections without a problem with flying colors. So after that i was sure it was just the computer being tripy. One major piece of advice that solves many problems: start filling up ONLY with Chevron Premium (91 Grade). It helps with so many things and will help with this.
Like i said, your case may be different but if i was you, i would just keep clearing the codes when they show up, it became a regular every 1-2 month thing. And wait till smog comes around, make sure its off for at least 100 consecutive miles before you take it in, but if it passes, you know to keep driving and not to worry. Volvo computers are not a strong point, so consider that and save yourself some money.

kaneco · Post by **kaneco** » 09 Oct 2010, 05:44

Thanks for the info. Going to check it out today. Let you Know how it went.