P0141 – O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 2)

The P0141 error code identifies a faulty oxygen sensor heating circuit, located on Bank 1 Sensor 2. An oxygen sensor is equipped with efficient power elements that allow components to attain the temperature required for proper operation.  

Read below to find out everything there is to know about Diagnostic Trouble Code P0141. This guide is going to cover causes, symptoms and costs to repair common causes of this code.

Check out below to learn more about this code:

What causes this code to set?

The air-to-fuel ratio that departs the exhaust system is monitored by oxygen sensors. The Power Control Module (PCM) diagnoses significant issues with the bank 1 sensor 2 oxygen sensor.

After monitoring  the sensor 2 heater circuit, a P0141 error code is set if the powertrain control module (PCM) detects a fault.

A P0141 OBD-II error code isn’t a major problem but should be fixed as soon as possible to prevent possible catalytic converter damage.

 If you’re handy enough, you can tackle this troublesome code without the help of skilled mechanics. Ensure that you follow some simple approaches and always remember, if you do not know how to do it make sure you research it properly before hand

Symptoms of  P0141

There are several symptoms associated with the error code P0141. However, not all of them are easily noticed. 

Check engine lights are commonly used to diagnose this code by vehicle owners or technicians. Since this is an emission code, the chances of not fixing this OBD-II code will find you in trouble at your next emissions test. Expect a failed emissions test if this code is noticed

The following is a list among several identifying symptoms that could mean you have a faulty oxygen sensor heater circuit:

  • Possible lack of power 
  • Engine stays in open-loop, it may run unnecessarily rich.
  • Emissions diagnostic failure 
  • Flashing check engine light

What Can Cause This Error Code To Display?

There are many factors that can cause the error code P0141, but a faulty oxygen sensor is generally the most common cause. Because this is a heater code, this means the oxygen sensor heater has failed. 

Oxygen sensors generally last for 60,000 to 90,000 miles until they need repairing.

Let’s take a look at some of the most typical causes of this error code:

  • Faulty oxygen sensor
  • Wiring or improper connections
  • Failed Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
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How to Fix  Error Code P0141?

P0141 repair is not complicated, and it does not generally necessitate the assistance of a highly qualified mechanic unless there is a major problem. 

Depending on the actual cause, you can rectify this error code in one of the following ways:

Ensure that the oxygen sensor’s wiring and connections are correct.If code sets intermittently you may have a connection problem

Replacement of the indicated oxygen sensor.

Once you have completed the repair, clear the fault codes and perform a road test to determine if there is still a problem.

Can I drive my vehicle if there is a P0141 code?

From a technical perspective, the answer is YES.  A faulty oxygen sensor will not cause any terrible issues but can cause premature failure of the catalytic converter

If your oxygen sensors are not reading correctly, the PCM may overfuel the engine resulting in raw fuel being introduced into the catalytic converter, causing failure. 

It’s preferable to repair this emission code as fast as possible due to the possible issues that may occur when it is present. 

P0141: Cost of repair

The cost of fixing the P0141 emission code depends on the cause. 

Here are some of the rough estimates on more common causes of this code:

  • Defective oxygen sensor $150-$800
  • Replace/Rebuild Powertrain Control Module $400-$1400
  • Wiring or connection issues $50-$500

Other Codes Related To P0141

Other codes that are similar to P0141 are P0134, P0138, and P0137. These are all codes related to oxygen sensors on the vehicle.

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