What causes fault code P0162?

• Most likely: Defective oxygen sensor (internal short or open circuit) • Likely: Damaged wiring harness (chafed against exhaust or chassis) • Possible: Corrosion or poor connection in the sensor connector • Rare: Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) or software error

Powertrain (Engine & Gearbox)Standard EOBD

P0162 - O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2, Sensor 3)

Q: What are the symptoms of fault code P0162?

• Check Engine Light (MIL) illuminated • No noticeable driveability issues (as the sensor is post-catalyst) • Potentially slight increase in fuel consumption • Emission test failure (cannot pass inspection)

Q: How do you fix fault code P0162?

STEP 1: Visually inspect the wiring and connector for Bank 2, Sensor 3. Check for frayed wires or corrosion in the pins. STEP 2: Use a multimeter to check for ground and bias voltage (typically 0.45V) from the ECM with the sensor unplugged. STEP 3: Measure the resistance of the heater element within the O2 sensor. Normal values are usually 5-20 Ohms. STEP 4: Monitor live data using a scan tool. A healthy post-catalytic sensor should show a steady voltage. If frozen at 0V or 1.1V, the circuit is likely open or shorted. STEP 5: Replace the oxygen sensor if faulty. Clear codes and perform a drive cycle.

Last updated:1 February 2026

Related:O2 Sensor (Bank 2, Sensor 3), Engine Control Module (ECM), Exhaust System, Wiring Harness

System

Powertrain (Engine & Gearbox)

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P0103

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Technical Description

P0162 is a generic OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicating a malfunction in the O2 sensor circuit for Bank 2, Sensor 3. The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the voltage signal from the oxygen sensor to ensure it stays within the expected operating range (typically 100mV to 900mV). If the ECM detects an open circuit, high resistance, or an implausible voltage signal from this specific sensor, P0162 is stored. This sensor is crucial for monitoring catalyst efficiency downstream of the catalytic converter.

Possible Causes

Defective oxygen sensor (internal short or open circuit)

Damaged wiring harness (chafed against exhaust or chassis)

Corrosion or poor connection in the sensor connector

Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) or software error

Symptoms

Check Engine Light (MIL) illuminated

No noticeable driveability issues (as the sensor is post-catalyst)

Potentially slight increase in fuel consumption

Emission test failure (cannot pass inspection)

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P0162 - O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2, Sensor 3)

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P0162 - O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2, Sensor 3)

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Mechanic's Tip

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other fault codes?