So here's the problem, My check engine light came on last night and I got the code checked today. The code is: Catalyst efficiency low in bank 1. I did some checking around and found some oil in my PCV valve. Anyone have any thoughts as to why this could be? I just changed my oil the other day. I drained it completely, put on a new filter and used the same type of oil I always use. I put in all 4 quarts. I changed my oil in april and drove it until June 3rd( I had to go out to sea). I got back July 23rd and changed my oil this thursday. So the car hasn't been driven for 2 months. So could anyone shed some light on how much trouble I'm in here?

~Deluded


I posted this over at H-A.net but it seemed like nobody had an answer for me. Any help would be appreciated.

 

The oil in your intake could be simply a clogged PCV valve. Try a new one, they're pretty cheap.

I don't know if you can have enough oil to actually cause the catalyst error code? Check out the 2nd O2 sensor (downstream of the cat) because that's how the ECU measures cat efficiency. Reset your ecu after replacing (or cleaning) your PCV valve. Maybe it won't come back?

 

The PCV valve isn't that old. I replaced it 4-5K miles ago. It still moves freely in it's casing despite having oil in it. It's been mentioned to me that I could have oil making it's way to the cat and clogging it causing the error code. If that's the case that would suck.