BMW Error Code P1420: How to Fix It

Medium 1-3 hours Low Severity Verified June 2026
Error Code
P1420
Brand
BMW
Product Type
automotive
Severity
Low
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
1-3 hours
BMW error code P1420 indicates an electrical problem with the secondary air injection valve circuit. This system helps reduce emissions during cold starts by injecting fresh air into the exhaust system, and electrical faults can trigger the check engine light.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code P1420

  1. Safety First and Initial Checks

    Always disconnect the battery before working on electrical components to prevent short circuits.
  2. Check Fuses and Relays

  3. Test Electrical Connections

    Be careful around moving engine parts when testing with the engine running.
  4. Inspect Wiring Harness

  5. Test the Air Injection Valve

  6. Clear Codes and Test Drive

Parts You May Need

Secondary air injection valve
Check Price on Amazon
Automotive fuses
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Automotive relay
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Electrical wire and connectors
Check Price on Amazon
Secondary air injection valve
Check Price on Amazon
Automotive fuses
Check Price on Amazon
Automotive relay
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical wire and connectors
Check Price on Amazon
Secondary air injection valve
Check Price on Amazon
Automotive fuses
Check Price on Amazon
Automotive relay
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical wire and connectors
Check Price on Amazon
Secondary air injection valve
Check Price on Amazon
Automotive fuses
Check Price on Amazon
Automotive relay
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical wire and connectors
Check Price on Amazon
Secondary air injection valve
Check Price on Amazon
Automotive fuses
Check Price on Amazon
Automotive relay
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical wire and connectors
Check Price on Amazon
Secondary air injection valve
Check Price on Amazon
Automotive fuses
Check Price on Amazon
Automotive relay
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical wire and connectors
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional

Call a BMW specialist if the engine control module needs replacement, if you're not comfortable working with electrical systems, or if the problem persists after replacing obvious faulty components. Professional diagnosis may be needed if multiple electrical faults are present.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes BMW P1420 error code?
P1420 is typically caused by a faulty secondary air injection valve, damaged wiring harness, blown fuse, bad relay, or rarely a failing engine control module. Corrosion in electrical connections is also a common cause.
Can I drive with P1420 code?
Yes, you can drive with P1420 as it's a low-severity code that affects emissions but not engine operation. However, you should fix it promptly to pass emissions testing and prevent potential catalytic converter damage over time.
How much does it cost to fix BMW P1420?
DIY repair costs range from $20-150 depending on the faulty component. A blown fuse costs under $5, while a new secondary air injection valve typically runs $80-150. Professional repair can cost $200-500 including labor.
Will P1420 cause BMW to fail emissions test?
Yes, P1420 will likely cause your BMW to fail emissions testing since it indicates a problem with the secondary air injection system, which is part of the emissions control system.