OBD2 Car ScannerWhat does P042A mean?
P042A stands for Catalyst Temperature Sensor Circuit (Bank 1 Sensor 2). A part of the emission control system is not working as expected. These codes rarely affect how the car drives, but the car may fail an emissions test.
Powertrain codes cover the engine, transmission and emissions. When the car's computer sees a reading outside its normal range, it stores this code and may turn on a warning light on the dashboard.
Common causes
- Loose or damaged fuel cap (EVAP codes)
- Worn catalytic converter
- Faulty EGR valve or blocked EGR passages
- Faulty oxygen sensor
- Cracked hoses or a leaking purge valve
What to do
- Read all stored and pending codes with a scanner. Several codes together often point to one cause.
- Note the freeze frame data (speed, temperature, load) recorded when the code was set.
- Inspect the wiring and connectors of the part named in the code for damage, corrosion or looseness.
- Fix the most likely and cheapest cause first, then clear the code and drive to see if it comes back.
Read this code from your own car
Plug in a cheap ELM327 adapter and the app shows every fault code, what it means and how to fix it.
Frequently asked questions
What does P042A mean?
P042A means “Catalyst Temperature Sensor Circuit (Bank 1 Sensor 2)”. It belongs to the emission controls group: A part of the emission control system is not working as expected. These codes rarely affect how the car drives, but the car may fail an emissions test.
Is it safe to drive with P042A?
Usually yes in the short term, but get it fixed so the car passes inspection and doesn't waste fuel.
How do I clear P042A?
Fix the cause, then clear the code with an OBD2 scanner or app. If the fault is still there, the code will come back.
Related codes
- P0426Catalyst Temperature Sensor Range/Performance (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
- P0427Catalyst Temperature Sensor Low (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
- P0428Catalyst Temperature Sensor High (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
- P0429Catalyst Heater Control Circuit (Bank 1)
- P042BCatalyst Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
- P042CCatalyst Temperature Sensor Circuit Low (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
- P042DCatalyst Temperature Sensor Circuit High (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
- P042EExhaust Gas Recirculation A Control Stuck Open
Code meanings can vary by manufacturer. This page is general guidance, not a repair manual. Always confirm the cause before replacing parts.