Front catalytic-converter replacement may be considered when a 2015 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD with the 2.4L gasoline four-cylinder has a check-engine light, exhaust rattling, leakage or reduced power. P0420 means catalyst-system efficiency is below threshold. Neither that code nor those symptoms alone prove the converter has failed; sensor faults, exhaust leaks and engine-running problems need diagnosis first.
The component covered here is Honda’s front warm-up three-way catalytic converter, or WU-TWC, mounted at the cylinder head. A separate underfloor converter remains farther downstream. These steps follow the 2015 EX-L AWD factory layout. Confirm the original mounting, shielding, sensor and emissions configuration before buying; the additional vehicles in the product catalog require their own service instructions.
Intermediate to advanced: safe underbody access, sensor handling and torque control.
2–4 hours after diagnosis; corrosion or thread repair can add substantially.
$245–$445 for one front converter, new seals/nuts and consumables; tools extra.
These are planning estimates for an experienced DIYer with serviceable mounting points. They are not factory labor times, live product prices or a complete exhaust-system budget.
Safety before starting
Let the engine and exhaust become fully cold. Park on hard, level ground, apply the parking brake and chock the grounded wheels. Use appropriate lifting equipment and rated supports at Honda’s designated points; never work beneath a vehicle held only by a hydraulic jack. Control the converter and adjoining exhaust while their fasteners are removed.
Wear eye protection and fitted gloves for cold handling. Use penetrating oil only with the engine off, adequate ventilation and no ignition sources. Stop for seized sensor threads, broken studs, damaged head threads or insufficient access to torque the fasteners. Start the engine only outdoors or with effective exhaust extraction; carbon monoxide cannot be judged by smell.
Featured converter and purchasing checks
The featured product is the A-Premium Front Catalytic Converter, part APCCT083, ASIN B0CN18Y5KV. The exact listing identifies one front assembly, a four-bolt inlet flange, a three-bolt outlet flange and one sensor port. Overall listed length is 460 mm. It includes bolt hardware, but the listing does not establish every required gasket or replacement-nut quantity. Check the delivered contents against the supplies below before taking the vehicle apart.
The manufacturer catalog describes a federal-emissions application and excludes sale, use and shipping to California, New York, Colorado and Maine. Match the underhood emissions label, including engine family/test group, to the exact application and applicable state requirements. Where CARB authorization is required, use an OEM replacement or the correct approved Executive Order/application. Shipping availability does not establish installation eligibility. California converter-selection guidance.
Establish and document the replacement need, check VIN-specific warranty or campaign coverage, and retain the original converter arrangement and working sensors. Check the supplied identification and emissions-warranty documentation. EPA aftermarket-converter replacement policy.
View Featured Front Catalytic Converter
Vehicle compatibility and repair scope
| Vehicle | Model years | Engine / configuration | Application in this guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda CR-V EX-L | 2015 | 2.4L gasoline, AWD | Detailed factory procedure below, subject to matching emissions eligibility and original configuration. |
| Honda CR-V | 2015–2016 | 2.4L four-cylinder in the exact product listing | Other catalog configurations only; this page does not establish their access steps or specifications. |
| Honda Accord | 2013–2017 | 2.4L four-cylinder in the exact product listing | Catalog application only. Do not apply the CR-V procedure to an Accord. |
Honda reference 18190-5X6-J00 appears among the product interchanges and in the 2015 CR-V converter catalog. Compare flanges, bracket attachment, cover mounts and sensor location with the original unit. A matching interchange number does not transfer another product’s emissions approval.
Diagnose P0420 before ordering
Save the evidence. Record stored and pending codes, freeze-frame data and the conditions under which the warning appeared. Honda’s 2015 P0420 diagnostic procedure prioritizes related secondary oxygen-sensor codes P0137, P0138 and P2270, heater code P0141, and misfire codes P0300–P0304. Diagnose those first. Poor-quality fuel can also trigger this efficiency code.
Separate leakage, noise and restriction. Inspect cold joints, shields, fasteners and sensor wiring. A loose cover can rattle, while a leaking joint can tick. Loss of power requires proper engine and exhaust-restriction diagnosis. Correct misfires and abnormal oil or coolant consumption before exposing a new catalyst to the same problem.
Use the correct confirmation method. Honda evaluates P0420 under specified warm-engine and driving conditions with HDS diagnostic equipment. Its failed confirmation branch directs replacement of the WU-TWC. A passed result can indicate an intermittent condition; an executing or out-of-condition result is unfinished diagnosis. A generic reader is useful for codes and readiness but does not reproduce every Honda-specific status function.
The upstream A/F sensor and downstream oxygen sensor have different jobs and signal characteristics. Do not condemn either because their displayed voltages differ, and do not replace both sensors automatically with the converter.
Tools, parts and supplies
Use existing suitable tools where available. Match each actual fastener head and confirm clearance before applying force. The two torque ranges cover both the light splash-shield bolts and the exhaust connections.
| Tool or Supply | Exact Product | Product Link | Purpose and Selection Check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Socket and ratchet set | DEWALT 192-Piece SAE and Metric Mechanics Socket Set | View socket and ratchet set | DEWALT DWMT75049, 192 pieces, with 1/4-, 3/8- and 1/2-inch drives. Includes a hand ratchet matching the sensor socket; select actual metric heads. |
| Small torque wrench | EPAuto 1/4-Inch Drive Inch-Pound Torque Wrench | View small torque wrench | EPAuto ST-013-1, 1/4-inch drive, 2.26–22.6 N·m. Use for the 9.4 N·m splash-shield bolts and 12 N·m converter-cover bolts. |
| Main torque wrench | EPAuto 1/2-inch Drive Click Torque Wrench | View main torque wrench | EPAuto ST-010-1, 1/2-inch drive, 13.6–203.5 N·m. Covers 22, 32, 45 and 54 N·m; directly drives the sensor socket. |
| A/F sensor socket | CTA 2064 Thin-Wall Oxygen Sensor Socket | View a/f sensor socket | CTA 2064, straight 22 mm / 7/8-inch, 1/2-inch drive, 90 mm long. Confirm hex and recess clearance; Honda specifies S6176 or an equivalent wrench. |
| OBD-II reader — diagnostic | Autel AL319 OBD-II Code Reader | View obd-ii reader — diagnostic | Autel AL319 records codes, freeze frame and supported readiness/data. Honda-specific confirmation status requires suitable HDS capability. |
| Wheel chocks | MaxxHaul 70472 Solid Rubber Wheel Chocks, 2-Pack | View wheel chocks | MaxxHaul 70472, two per pack. The selected stand instructions require both grounded rear wheels chocked fore and aft: four chocks, or two packs. |
| Floor jack — conditional | Arcan 3-Ton Aluminum Low-Profile Floor Jack | View floor jack — conditional | Arcan A20019, 3-ton capacity. Confirm load, saddle, Honda lift point and required height. A jack raises the vehicle; stands support the work. |
| Jack stands — conditional | Pro-Lift Double-Pin Jack Stands, 3 Tons per Pair | View jack stands — conditional | Pro-Lift T-6903D, 3 tons per matched pair. Support one end only, with both locks engaged; follow the stand manual. A suitable workshop hoist is an alternative. |
| Penetrating oil — conditional | B'laster PB Penetrating Catalyst, 11-ounce Aerosol | View penetrating oil — conditional | B’laster 16-PB, 11 oz. Treat cold corroded hardware only; protect sensors and catalyst, observe label precautions and clear residue before running. |
| Protective goggles | 3M Chemical Splash Goggles | View protective goggles | 3M 91252H1-DC-10. Fit securely for falling debris and incidental splashes; goggles do not provide exhaust-gas protection. |
| Clip remover | Lisle 35260 Plastic Fastener Remover | View clip remover | Match the tool to the actual plastic retainer. Release a push-pin’s locking center before lifting its body; replace damaged clips. Manufacturer specifications. |
| Work gloves | Properly fitted mechanic gloves | Select fit and mechanical protection | For cold, stationary handling and sharp edges. Keep hands clear of running-engine parts. |
| New inlet/head gasket | Honda 18115-5A2-A01 — quantity 1 | View converter gasket catalog | Rectangular cylinder-head flange gasket. Confirm VIN and replacement flange; install new. |
| New outlet sealing ring | Honda 18212-T2F-A01 — quantity 1 | View outlet-seal catalog | Circular metal ring at the WU-TWC-to-pipe-A joint. Confirm VIN; this is not a flat three-hole gasket. |
| New upper nuts | Honda 94050-08080, 8 mm flange nuts — quantity 2 | View upper hardware catalog | Replace the two cylinder-head mounting nuts. The two upper bolts may be reused if serviceable. |
| New outlet nuts | Honda 90212-SA5-003, 10 mm self-locking nuts — quantity 3 | View outlet hardware catalog | Replace all three outlet-joint nuts. Required job quantity differs from a whole-system catalog quantity. |
Inspect all reused bolts, brackets and covers. Obtain correct replacements for damaged hardware rather than substituting a similar-looking fastener. The rear pipe-A joint stays closed in this procedure, so its separate gasket is not part of the normal supply list.
DIY versus professional cost
| Expense | Estimate and scope |
|---|---|
| Front converter allowance | $180–$300; confirm the actual eligible product offer before ordering. |
| Two gaskets and five new nuts | $50–$110 planning allowance; delivered kit contents affect the purchase list. |
| Consumables | $15–$35 for small supplies and any cold-hardware treatment. |
| DIY parts total | $245–$445, excluding tax, shipping and tools. |
| Tools not owned | Add actual purchase or rental quotes for the socket set, two torque ranges, sensor socket and required lifting/support equipment. |
| Professional model-year benchmark | RepairPal lists $1,408–$1,464 for a 2015 CR-V: $1,310–$1,321 parts and $98–$143 labor, before taxes, fees and related repairs. |
The RepairPal estimate is a model-year benchmark, not a quote for this exact front assembly or AWD configuration. Ask a shop which converter, approval standard, seals and diagnosis its price includes. Broken studs, sensor replacement and additional exhaust repairs change either budget.
Replacement steps: 2015 CR-V EX-L AWD 2.4L
Begin only after diagnosis and application checks are complete. Photograph the original covers, bracket and harness routing. The Honda WU-TWC procedure is the basis for the following sequence.
- Prepare and remove the splash shield. Save scan data, switch the ignition off and let everything cool. Establish safe lower access with a hoist or appropriate front lifting/support setup, leaving the grounded wheels chocked. Remove the splash shield’s 13 clips and two bolts, keeping their positions organized. Support the shield as the last retainers come out. Honda splash-shield access.
- Disconnect the lower joint and remove the support bracket. Have a helper control the adjoining exhaust so it cannot drop, twist or strain its flexible section and wiring. Remove the three outlet self-locking nuts; discard them for replacement. Separate the joint carefully, then remove the two WU-TWC bracket bolts and bracket. Keep the pipe supported and the remaining joints undisturbed. Honda lower-joint and bracket view.
- Remove the A/F sensor and chamber cover. Unplug the upstream sensor connector before turning the sensor. Release the wire from any routing restraints that would load it, and use a fitting sensor wrench to unscrew it without twisting the harness. Set it where the tip stays clean and protected. Remove the exhaust chamber cover to expose the upper mounting area. Honda A/F-sensor removal.
- Remove the front converter. Support the converter while removing its two upper nuts and two upper bolts. Retain serviceable bolts and replace the nuts. Lift the unit away carefully, remove the old rectangular head gasket and old outlet ring, and protect open passages from debris. Remove the converter’s own cover for transfer. Inspect the original unit, mounting faces, threads and bracket for damage.
- Transfer the cover and mount the replacement at the head. Compare the complete replacement with the original before fitting. Restore clean, undamaged sealing faces without gouging them or sending debris into a port. Refit the converter cover at 12 N·m (9 lb-ft). Fit the new circular metal outlet ring onto the WU-TWC spigot as the assembly is positioned. Install a new rectangular inlet gasket, seat the assembly and hand-start the two bolts and two new upper nuts. Tighten these four head fasteners to 32 N·m (24 lb-ft) before installing the support bracket. Cover specification; head mounting and gasket diagram.
- Restore the chamber cover and sensor. Refit the exhaust chamber cover at 22 N·m (16 lb-ft). Hand-start the A/F sensor without crossing its threads, then tighten it to 45 N·m (33 lb-ft) with a fitting straight, coaxial sensor socket. Keep the sensing tip free of oil, sealant and dirt; follow the sensor maker’s thread-coating instructions rather than adding compounds indiscriminately. Reconnect the electrical plug and restore the wire routing away from hot surfaces. Chamber-cover torque; Honda sensor torque.
- Install the bracket in the specified order. Check that the converter is fully secured to the cylinder head. Position the bracket without using its bolts to pull a misaligned assembly into place. Hand-start both bolts, then tighten the converter-side horizontal bolt first and the engine-side angled bolt second, each to 45 N·m (33 lb-ft). Honda numbered bracket sequence.
- Reseal the outlet joint. Confirm the new circular metal outlet sealing ring remains properly seated. Bring the supported pipe into alignment without cocking the ring. Install three new self-locking outlet nuts and tighten to 54 N·m (40 lb-ft). Confirm the pipe, flexible section and bracket sit naturally and that no wiring is trapped. Honda outlet-joint specification.
- Refit the shield and check operation. Check fasteners, covers, sensor connection and clearances, then remove loose tools. Reinstall the splash shield with sound clips and tighten its two bolts to 9.4 N·m (6.9 lb-ft). Lower the vehicle safely. Start with effective exhaust ventilation and listen for leakage or contact at the disturbed joints; keep clear of hot and moving parts. Shut down and let the system cool if leakage, unusual noise or a warning returns. Shield fastener specification.
Finish with diagnostic confirmation. Recheck for stored or pending faults and follow Honda’s warm-engine confirmation procedure under safe, legal driving conditions. Monitor readiness must complete before calling the repair successful. Clearing a code resets useful evidence and can leave the catalyst monitor incomplete; it does not prove the vehicle will pass an emissions inspection. Have an uncertain leak or returning P0420 diagnosed before replacing more parts.
What the converter’s honeycomb shows
Common mistakes to avoid
- Buying from the code alone while leaving a misfire, sensor fault or exhaust leak unresolved.
- Confusing the front warm-up converter with the separate underfloor unit.
- Reusing either old gasket or mixing the two upper nuts with the three larger outlet nuts.
- Tightening the support bracket before the cylinder-head fasteners or using it to force alignment.
- Twisting the sensor harness, contaminating its tip or omitting a heat cover.
- Using sensor spacers, hollowing the converter or altering software to hide a fault.
Frequently asked questions
Does P0420 always require a new converter?
No. Honda checks related oxygen-sensor, heater and misfire faults and requires a confirmation result. Fixing a genuine leak or engine problem may change the diagnosis.
Must the underfloor converter be replaced too?
The featured item replaces the front WU-TWC only. Honda’s relevant failed P0420 branch directs that front replacement; another section needs its own diagnosis. This procedure leaves the rear pipe-A joint closed.
Can the original A/F sensor be reused?
Yes, if it is serviceable and comes out without damage. Inspect its threads, tip, wiring and connector. A seized or failed sensor needs appropriate replacement and careful thread assessment.
Is the listing suitable for every state?
No. It is marketed for matching federal-emissions applications and carries specific seller exclusions. Check the vehicle emissions label and applicable approval rules before ordering.
How soon should the warning light stay off?
There is no reliable fixed mileage promise. The engine must operate under conditions that let the catalyst monitor finish. A returning fault or incomplete test needs attention; a freshly cleared light alone is not confirmation.
Sources and further reading
- A-Premium APCCT083 specifications and application restrictions
- Honda 2015 CR-V EX-L AWD warm-up converter procedure
- Honda sensor-wrench specification
- Honda A/F-sensor removal and installation
- Honda splash-shield removal and installation
- Honda 2015 P0420 diagnosis and confirmation conditions
- 2015 CR-V EX-L AWD converter, inlet gasket and upper hardware catalog
- 2015 CR-V EX-L AWD outlet sealing ring and exhaust hardware catalog
- EPA replacement policy for aftermarket catalytic converters
- California BAR converter-selection guidance
- RepairPal 2015 CR-V cost benchmark
Once diagnosis, emissions eligibility and the replacement seals are settled, compare the featured assembly with your original converter.