2003 Honda CRV P0420 Fault: Catalytic Converter Issue and Engine Hesitation Symptoms

Hello, I own a 2003 Honda CRV with the i-Tech 2.4L DOHC engine. Over the past few months, my check engine light has been flashing on and off. When I had a friend scan the vehicle, the diagnostic code P0420 was returned. The only noticeable change in driving behavior is hesitation—particularly when accelerating. The first instance occurred while I was pulling into a parking lot and approaching a speed bump; upon pressing the accelerator, the engine hesitated. A second incident happened at a stop sign when I accelerated, and again, the car hesitated. These events were separated by several months. Given the P0420 code, this is likely indicating a failure in the catalytic converter's efficiency, which may be contributing to the hesitation symptoms.