What is the P0141 fault number? What is the Oxygen sensor heater circuit malfunction (Bank 1, Sensor 2)? How can you fix P0141 fault codes? What are the causes and effects of the P0141 error code ?….?
What is the P0141 Fault code? What does it all mean?
The OBD-II Index contains approximately 11,000 fault codes. What is the difference between the P0141 and other fault codes?
A P0141 code is a way to indicate that you are a professional. “Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1, Sensor 2)” . This indicates a problem with the heater circuit of oxygen sensor (downstream), after the catalyst on row 1.
It is important that you remember bank 1 is the engine row where cylinder 1. Ford pickup trucks have Row 1 on the passenger side. However, some brands like Chevy and Dodge have Row 1 on the driver’s side. It is essential that you are familiar with the location of Bank 1 prior to attempting troubleshooting. Sensor 2 is the oxygen sensor (O2) located in the middle or behind the pre-catalytic convertor (converter closest the engine).
An oxygen sensor measures the oxygen levels of exhaust gases entering the catalytic convert and then sends this information to the onboard computer (ECM/PCM/ECU).
The ECM uses data obtained from the upstream oxygen sensors (before the sensor1/converter), to fine-tune an engine’s mixture of air and fuel. To test the efficiency and effectiveness of the catalytic converter, it uses the downstream oxygen sensor (Sensor2/after the catalytic). Most people, even mechanics, don’t realize that the ECM will use downstream oxygen sensors if there is an error in the data from the upstream O2 sensor.
The oxygen sensors should be operational as soon after the engine has been started. They must reach a temperature to do this. O2 sensors with only one wire will not operate until the exhaust system has warmed up and the zirconia element reaches 600°F.
Heater oxygen sensors were developed to address this problem. There are four wires in heated O2 sensors. Two of the wires are always the exact same color, often either brown or white. Two wires receive voltage through a relay, and the other two heat the sensor. Two wires receive voltage via a relay and heat the sensor. The two remaining wires send data to the powertrain control unit.
A heating element, similar to a diesel engine glow-plug, is located at the O2 sensor’s middle. Without cutting the O2 sensor, you can’t see it. It has a resistance value of 6 ohms at cold temperatures, and a higher resistance as it heats up.
Through the ground voltage that it supplies to heater, the ECM measures the heater’s current and controls it. The ECM will generate a code P0141 if there is no current flow and it will illuminate the check engine light.
What causes the P0141 Fault code?
- – Defective oxygen sensor heater (most common)
- – Common circuit problems (eg. damaged wiring, loose connection – very common).
- ECM-related issues (e.g. software that needs updating – very rare)
Note: The problem cannot be caused by a defective catalytic converter. Faulty catalytic converters will cause this code. The P0420 fault code is used. occur.
What are the symptoms for P0141 Fault Codes?
- – Illumination for check engine light
- – Emissions values high
- – A rich mixture of fuel and oil can cause an increase in fuel consumption.
- Engine misfire
How do I fix the P0141 fault code?
- Bank 1 Sensor 2 O2 sensor Replacement (after catalytic convert)
- Repair and replacement of cables and connectors for Bank 1 sensor 2 to O2 sensor
- – Replacing the fuse in the O2 sensor heater circuit
Important is P0141 Fault Code?
To ensure that the ECM can control injectors and deliver the correct amount of fuel to the combustion chamber, the O2 sensors must work properly. The ECM could remain open loop until the problem is fixed. This can cause the engine to run more efficiently and use more fuel. The vehicle’s emission values also increase. This should be investigated and fixed as soon as possible.
