P0141 Code: O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction
Do you currently have an engine light on with the P0141 code showing up? The P0141 code means there's a problem with the Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit on Bank 1, Sensor 2. In simple terms, there’s a heater circuit inside some oxygen sensors. The purpose of this heater circuit is to heat the oxygen sensor to its normal operating temperature more quickly at start-up and to ensure that the sensor maintains operating temperature during idle. When the oxygen sensor can’t reach this temperature, the P0141 code can pop up.
Location
To locate the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor, figure out which side is Bank 1 in your car. Typically, Bank 1 is the side where cylinder 1 is located. After that, find the catalytic converter on Bank 1 and look for the downstream oxygen sensor, meaning it’s after the catalytic converter. If you’re having trouble finding it, check out this repair manual.
Common causes
Oxygen Sensor
A faulty oxygen sensor is the first component that could cause the P0141 code. The heater inside the oxygen sensor can malfunction and when that happens the check engine light with the P0141 code will show up.
Wiring
The second cause for the P0141 code is the oxygen sensor wiring. If the wires leading to the sensor are torn or broken this will throw a code as well.
Connector
The third component that can trigger the P0141 code is the oxygen sensor connector. If there’s rust or corrosion on it, it can prevent the sensor from working properly.
Blown Fuse
Another cause could be a blown oxygen sensor heater fuse. If there are issues in the wiring, the fuse can blow and set the P0141 code.
Engine control module
In rare instances, the ECM could be faulty. Also, sometimes the ECM wiring might be damaged which can cause this code. However, as mentioned earlier it’s very rare.
