OBD Guide

P0161

O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 2

Severity
⚠️ Medium
Can you drive?
Limited driving only, diagnose soon
Approx. repair cost
$56–167 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Unstable engine operation at idle
  • Check Engine Light Is On
  • Increased level of harmful emissions

Causes

  • Malfunction of the oxygen sensor (lambda probe)
  • Open or short circuit in the heater circuit
  • Wiring harness damage
  • Faulty relay or fuse
  • Problems with the ECU

How to Fix

  1. Check the resistance of the sensor heater (should be within 5-20 Ohms)
  2. Check the integrity of wiring and connectors
  3. Check the voltage in the heater circuit (usually 12 V)
  4. Replace the oxygen sensor if necessary
  5. Check and replace fuse or relay if necessary

Related codes

Error P0161 by Vehicle Brand