You need to know what code has been set. Without the code there is no way to begin any investigation.

You can go to one of the major aut parts stores and they will usually read the code for you.

Post the code (or codes) here and we may be able to help you.

 

Went to Auto Zone. Code is P0420. Does anyone know what that means?

 

You can buy a code reader on Amazon for $20.00 give or take….. had that happen to me in June… vapor lock..
Hope to try to fix this winter when there’s snow on the ground…

 

A quick forum search will help you out here. Just post the code in the search box and stand back. Then you can formulate more specific questions. BTW, having a code reader in the trunk tool kit is always a big help and works on more cars than the Solstice. Look on Amazon...as basic, or complex, as you want, $$-wise.

Richard

 

Google is your friend, my friend! It's a low catalyst performance warning. Could be a bad oxygen sensor (there are two - one in front of the catalytic converter and one after it.) The code is simply stating that the readings aren't within the "normal" range. If Auto Zone cleared the code (some part stores won't because it's consider a no-no in some states) I'd drive as normal. If they didn't do as Scott suggested and get a cheap code reader and re-set it yourself.

If it keeps coming back you need to take some action. It might just be a poor connection on the sensors that unplugging and plugging it might resolve. The sensors are not that expensive if you do need to replace one or both.

 

The problem is either with the cat or with the downstream oxygen sensor. Since the car is running well, it is most likely the sensor because the cats tend to collapse and clog the exhaust when they fail.

 

replace the cat

 

if the cat is bad on a non-turbo car,
you will not be able to sustain 3.5-4k RPMs. You will get all sorts of hiccups.

Normal ( no stress ) driving will not reveal anything about the cat...

wr

 

Good read:

P0420 Pontiac Solstice | Drivetrain Resource (700r4transmissionhq.com)

I would make sure to get the code cleared and it may or may not reappear. I got that code twice in a span of 3 weeks and never got another one in the past 2 years.