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My recently-purchased Toyota RAV4 is throwing up error codes related to exhaust sensors - what should I do?

I have recently purchased a 2004 Toyota RAV4 2.0 auto from an Independent dealer. From the day after I purchased it the MAL VSC TRC warning lights have come on and had to be reset. The diagnostic errors that have appeared are error codes P0420 and P2238. P2238 is a Bank 1 O2 sensor which is easily fixed with a new sensor, however P0420 is related to faulty or substandard coating on the catalytic converter and firmware upgrade. This is mentioned on your website and is resolved by a recall - Service Bulletin EG-5010 May 2005.

I did buy the car from an independent dealer, not a Toyota dealer with a five-star warranty, but they are not interested in resolving this problem. I have logged a call with Toyota Customer Relations and they are also not interested in this. The car is obviously out of warranty, however it is in excellent condition and has a full Toyota Service history.

Asked on 16 September 2010 by DGH

Answered by Honest John
These have at least three oxygen sensors in the exhaust system and when it all starts to go haywire you are in for a nightmare. If you "recently purchased" the car and it is not running properly, then the dealer who sold it to you is legally liable and has to suddenly start getting interested in fixing it or has to give you your money back.
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