OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic)

P04F8 Catalyst Heater Circuit Intermittent Bank 1

Same as P04F4 with intermittent or erratic signal - typically a connector or harness fault on the heater feed.

Is it safe to drive with P04F8?

Usually safe for short trips, but don’t ignore it: the underlying fault can get more expensive over time.

Common causes

  • Most likelyIntermittent contact at connector
  • Less likelyConnector with intermittent contact under vibration
  • Less likelyHarness routed against vibrating component

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Failed emissions inspection
  • Possibly slightly increased fuel consumption
  • Sulfur (rotten egg) smell from exhaust under load

Repair at a glance

Difficulty
Hard
DIY friendly
Best left to a mechanic
Typical labour
1–4 h
Emissions test
Likely to fail
Parts involved
Electric Catalyst Heater B1, Catalyst Heater Wiring B1

Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.