What is the P0044 fault number? What is the description of the malfunction in the HO2S Heater Circuit High (Bank 1 Sensor 3)? How do you fix the P0044 fault code What are the causes and symptoms for the P0044 fault code
What is the P0044 Fault code? What does it signify?
If the powertrain control module, (PCM), detects that the voltage signal coming from the O2 sensor heater control circuit has reached an unacceptable level, a code P0044 will be set. Vehicles with multiple engine banks will have “Bank 1” and “Sensor 3”. The oxygen sensor located furthest away from the engine is after the catalytic convert.
Today’s engines often use heated oxygen sensors. These sensors come with a heating part to quickly reach operating temperature and allow the engine enter closed loop faster. These sensors are used to measure the oxygen level in the exhaust stream as well as the efficiency of catalytic converters.
The PCM controls the HO2S heater circuit on some vehicles. Others use a 12V supply battery and a ground wire from the PCM to power the heating element when it is turned on. The PCM monitors the voltage signals within the heater circuits continuously. Code P0044 is set when the PCM detects an abnormally low voltage condition in the heater-circuit.
P0044 fault codes can be found on vehicles of all makes and models, including but not limited to Toyota, Ford, Nissan Mitsubishi, Mazda, Subaru, Ford, Ford, Ford, Ford, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Mazda and Mitsubishi.
What causes the P0044 Fault code?
Here are some reasons why P0044 should be set.
- – Defective oxygen sensor (Bank 1 Sensor 3)
- – HO2S heater circuit, or short to ground (Bank 1 Sensor 3)
- – Blown H2S heater circuit fuse (if necessary)
- – A PCM that is not working or requires a software upgrade
What are the symptoms of the P0044 Fault Code?
You may experience the following symptoms if your vehicle has a P0044 Code:
- – Check that the engine light is illuminated. In most cases there are no other symptoms.
- – Rare cases of hard start
- – An increase in fuel consumption
How do I fix the P0044 fault code?
- – Repairing damaged wires and loose connections in the HO2S Circuit
- – Replacing fuse for HO2S heater circuit
- – If excessive undervoltage is detected, test the circuit and replace the sensor (Bank 1 sensor 3).
- – Reprogramming or replacement of a faulty PCM
How Serious Is the P0044 Fault Coding?
P0044 rarely causes any symptoms, other than the check-engine light turning on. It is therefore not a serious code. It is important to have the engine checked as soon as possible if it is running irregularly or hard, and if fuel consumption is increasing.
