Error P0141 – how to fix it?

Definition of the code P0141

O2 sensor heating circuit failure (Bank 1, sensor 2)

What does code P0141 mean?

P0141 is a generic OBD-II code that indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has tested the O2 sensor heater circuit and detected a problem with the oxygen sensor heater circuit Bank 1, Sensor 2.

What causes code P0141?

The ECM tests the O2 heater circuit at initial startup and detects a short or open circuit, or excessive current draw in the O2 heater circuit of bank 1, sensor 2, sensor 2.

What are the symptoms of code P0141?

• The engine may be running with too rich a mixture because the engine is open-circuited.
• The engine may malfunction and start fouling the spark plugs, causing the ignition to fail.
• Engine control light comes on.

How does a mechanic diagnose a P0141 code?

• Check electrical connections or wiring harness cover to O2 sensor 2 bank 1.
• Scan the codes and document the freeze frame data, then erase the codes to verify the fault.
• Monitors O2 sensor data to verify that the heater circuit is working for sensor bank 1 of sensor 2.
• Checks the power supply to the O2 sensor heater circuit.
• Verifies that the O2 sensor heater circuit has the correct resistance to specification
• Perform the manufacturer’s recommended spot tests for further diagnosis.

Common errors when diagnosing P0141 code?

Follow these simple tips to avoid misdiagnosis:

• Check that water has not entered the O2 wiring harness, short-circuiting the sensor.
• Check the O2 sensor for oil or coolant contamination due to engine leaks.
• Check the new O2 sensor to make sure the heating circuit is working properly after replacement.
• Check the removed O2 sensor to make sure it is not damaged by a faulty catalyst that has disrupted the sensor or clogged the sensor holes.

How serious is the code P0141?

• The code is for the sensor behind the catalytic converter in engine bank 1.
• The O2 sensors are the fuel control feedback that the ECM needs to properly control the injectors.
• The ECM can remain open looped until the O2 system is repaired or the O2 sensor is reset.
• An engine stopped in open circuit will run too rich, burn more fuel, and begin to overheat.

What fixes can repair a P0141 code?

1. Clear the trouble codes and perform a road test to try to verify the fault.
2. Replace O2 sensor in seat 1 sensor 2
3. Repair or replace the wiring or connection from the O2 sensor bank 1 to sensor 2.
4. Replace the O2 sensor heating circuit fuse.

Additional notes on code P0141

The sensor 2 O2 bank 1 heating circuit is used to heat only the internal parts of the sensor 2 O2 bank 1, and the code can be isolated for this sensor only.