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P0043 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "HO2S Heater Control Circuit Low (Bank 1 Sensor 3)". This can happen for multiple reasons and a mechanic needs to diagnose the specific cause for this code to be triggered in your situation. Our certified mobile mechanics can come to your home or office to perform the Check Engine Light diagnostic for $154.99 . Once we are able to diagnose the problem, you will be provided with an upfront quote for the recommended fix and receive $50.0 off as a credit towards the repair. All our repairs are backed by our 12-month / 12,000-mile warranty.
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P0043 stands for low circuit voltage for the heated oxygen sensor bank 1 sensor 3. This code can be seen with P0044 and P0042.
The definition of P0043 is low voltage for the heater control circuit. P0043 indicates that the car’s ECU has detected lower than expected voltage and has triggered a warning light.
P0043 may have a few typical causes:
The vehicle’s engine control unit (ECU) detects lower than specified voltage from bank 1 sensor 3’s heater circuit. This triggers the Check Engine Light to be illuminated on the dash. When the heater control circuit malfunctions, it causes readings to not be accurate for bank 1 sensor 3. In rare cases, the vehicle may experience rough running and poor fuel economy.
As with most DTC’s, step-by-step diagnostics are required to rule out simple issues before looking at more complex ones. Repair steps are as follows:
A scan tool is installed into vehicles OBD-II port to check if P0043 is present
Freeze frame data is observed so conditions for the code being triggered can be recreated
The code is cleared and a test drive is performed under the same conditions as the freeze frame data indicated.
If the Check Engine Light returns upon test, then the code is confirmed.
The technician performs a visual inspection of wiring and bank 1 sensor 3 for any damage, breaks, or shorted wiring.
Bank 1 sensor 3 voltage is checked to make sure it is not excessively low.
If low voltage is confirmed, bank 1 sensor 3 is faulty
If low voltage was not present, a diagnostic of the ECU will be performed, this test is manufacture and vehicle-make specific.
P0043 is an uncommon code. Following all steps and not skipping anything is important so nothing is overlooked. Oxygen sensors should not be cleaned, and if faulty, should be replaced. Always confirm low voltage for oxygen sensor bank 1 sensor 3 before any replacement is performed.
P0043 is generally not a serious code as it usually does not cause any symptoms other than the Check Engine Light. With poor fuel economy and the vehicle running roughly, it is recommended to have this code looked at by a qualified technician as soon as possible to ensure safe operation of the vehicle.
The most common repairs are as follows:
Though this code is more uncommon, it does occur periodically. Following all steps and not jumping to conclusions before checking is important to make fixing this code simple. Refer to manufacture diagrams for the wiring and sensor locations to aid in diagnostics.
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