Drive with caution — fix soon.
This code means the heated catalytic converter on bank 2 (the side of the engine away from cylinder number one) isn't cleaning exhaust gases as efficiently as it should. It's usually caused by an aging or failing catalytic converter, but bad oxygen sensors or exhaust leaks can trigger it too. Fixes range from replacing a faulty O2 sensor to installing a new catalytic converter if it's worn out.
$200 – $2200
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Usually yes, at least for short-term driving. The car will still run, but you may notice slightly worse fuel economy and it won't pass emissions. Get it diagnosed within a week or two so a minor issue doesn't turn into a full converter replacement.
If it's just an oxygen sensor or wiring, repairs often run $200 to $400. If the catalytic converter itself needs replacing, it can climb to $1,500 to $2,200 depending on your vehicle and parts.
It's moderate in severity. There's no immediate danger and you won't break down, but a failing catalytic converter affects emissions and can slowly hurt performance, so it's worth fixing rather than ignoring.
Not always. Many cases trace back to a bad oxygen sensor, an exhaust leak, or misfires fouling the converter. A good mechanic will confirm the converter is actually failing before recommending an expensive replacement.