What is the P0161 fault code What is the Oxygen sensor heater circuit malfunction (Bank 2, Sensor 2) failure description. How do I fix the P0161 fault code What are the causes and symptoms of the P0161 error code?
What is the P0161 fault code? What does it all mean?
A code P0161 means “Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2, Sensor 2)”. Bank 2 alerts you to a problem with your Sensor 2 oxygen (O2) sensor’s heater circuit.
Modern oxygen sensors are equipped with heater components that allow them to reach the ideal operating temperature quickly. The Engine Control Module/PCM uses data from heated oxygen sensors in order to determine the fuel delivery rate and monitor performance of the catalytic convertor. Bank 2 is the block containing the engine’s second cylinder. The downstream sensor, Sensor 2, is located after the catalytic convert. This sensor’s primary function is to regulate the oxygen level in the exhaust gases leaving the catalytic convert.
The signals from the heated oxygen sensors are continuously monitored by the PCM. The PCM sets the codes for any unusual fluctuations or changes in voltage signals.
Only V6 or V8 engine vehicles are eligible for code P0161. This code is not applicable to vehicles with four cylinders. Your vehicle will have only one engine bank and usually one downstream sensor. Instead, a faulty downstream heated oxygen sensor P0141 “Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1, Sensor 2)” is set.
What are the Possible Causes for the P0161 Fault code?
There are many reasons the PCM could set P0161 code:
- – Defective oxygen sensor (Bank 2, Sensor 2)
- – An issue with the oxygen sensor heater circuit (open, short circuit, or high resistance).
- Problem with the PCM
What are the symptoms of P0161 Malfunction Code?
Code P0161 may not cause you to experience any symptoms. The only possible symptom of code P0161 is the checking engine light coming on.
- – Illumination at the check engine lights
- – Increased Emission Values
How to Fix the P0161 Fault Code
- – Reparing the heater circuit’s wiring
- – Bank 2 sensor 2 oxygen sensor replacement
How serious is the P0161 Fault code?
The vehicle’s drivability is not affected by fault code P0161. It can cause emissions values to rise. It is possible to cause damage to the catalytic converter if you ignore the issue for too long. A constantly lit check engine lamp can also mislead motorists to other fault codes. This should be addressed immediately.
