What causes fault code P0160?

• Most likely: Faulty Oxygen (O2) Sensor (Bank 2, Sensor 2) • Likely: Open or short circuit in the wiring harness • Possible: Corroded or loose electrical connectors • Rare: Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) or software issue

Powertrain (Engine & Gearbox)Standard EOBD

P0160 - O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 2, Sensor 2)

Q: What are the symptoms of fault code P0160?

• Check Engine Light (MIL) illumination • Slightly increased fuel consumption • Failed emissions test • Often no noticeable driveability symptoms

Q: How do you fix fault code P0160?

STEP 1: Visually inspect the sensor connector for moisture, corrosion, or backed-out pins. Clean as necessary. STEP 2: Test the sensor heater circuit. Measure resistance (Ohm) across the heater wires (usually the two white wires). Expect 2-20 Ohms depending on OEM specs. STEP 3: Use a scan tool to monitor O2 sensor voltage in Live Data. Induce a lean or rich condition (e.g., using propane or creating a vacuum leak) to see if the sensor responds. If voltage remains fixed at approx. 0.45V, the sensor is likely dead. STEP 4: Perform a continuity test on the signal and ground wires between the sensor plug and the ECU to rule out wiring harness breaks. STEP 5: Replace the Oxygen Sensor (Bank 2, Sensor 2).

Last updated:1 February 2026

Related:Oxygen Sensor (Lambda), SCR Catalyst, Engine Control Unit (ECU), Wiring Harness

System

Powertrain (Engine & Gearbox)

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Technical Description

P0160 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a lack of activity from the downstream oxygen (O2) sensor on Bank 2. Under normal operating conditions, the sensor should oscillate or change voltage based on exhaust oxygen content. If the ECM detects that the sensor voltage remains stationary (typically at a bias voltage of approx. 0.45V) for a calibrated period of time after the sensor should have reached operating temperature, P0160 is stored. This sensor is primarily used to monitor catalytic converter efficiency.

Possible Causes

Faulty Oxygen (O2) Sensor (Bank 2, Sensor 2)

Open or short circuit in the wiring harness

Corroded or loose electrical connectors

Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) or software issue

Symptoms

Check Engine Light (MIL) illumination

Slightly increased fuel consumption

Failed emissions test

Often no noticeable driveability symptoms

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P0160 - O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 2, Sensor 2)

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P0160 - O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 2, Sensor 2)

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