P0153 OBD-II Trouble Code: 02 Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 2 Sensor 1)

P0153 trouble code definition

02 Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 2 Sensor 1)

What the P0153 code means

The P0153 trouble code is an indication that the oxygen sensor is not properly regulating the fuel and oxygen levels. The oxygen sensor voltage switches between high voltage (fuel) and low voltage (air) at a rapid rate of speed.

When the oxygen sensor switches at a speed that is slower than normal, it causes a slow response between the oxygen sensor and the power control module (PCM).

What causes the P0153 code?

• Intake air leaks
• Gas leaks in the exhaust, located near the oxygen sensor
• Broken, bare or shorted wires leading to the oxygen sensor
• A faulty oxygen sensor

What are the symptoms of the P0153 code?

Two symptoms that are most commonly associated with the P0153 trouble code are:

• The service engine soon/Check Engine Light will be on
• There will be an increase of fuel consumption.
• It is not common, but there may be drivability problems as well.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0153 code?

• Uses an OBD-II scanner to record all trouble codes and freeze frame data
• Inspects the exhaust and check for oil or coolant leaks
• Inspects the wires leading to the oxygen sensor for any breaks or exposed wires.
• Inspects the intake and vacuum hoses by going to the intake or engine to check for vacuum leaks
• Inspects the oxygen sensor for damage or contaminants that could be causing the oxygen sensor to malfunction
• Checks the oxygen sensor voltage switch, using the OBD-II scanner, to determine whether or not the sensor voltages are switching as they should

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0153 code

The mistake that is most commonly made when diagnosing the P0153 trouble code is that the oxygen sensor is replaced without first inspecting the other components of the system. Replacing the oxygen sensor won’t fix the problem or clear the P0153 trouble code if there is an issue somewhere else that is causing the error code, such as a leak in the exhaust or intake.

How serious is the P0153 code?

• It is not a serious code. The car will use more fuel but it should not cause any more problems that that.

• It some rare cases, and over a long period of time, this code could affect the performance of the catalytic converter.

What repairs can fix the P0153 code?

• Repairing broken or bare wires going to the oxygen sensor
• Repairing leaks in the exhaust
• Repairing vacuum leaks
• Replacing the oxygen sensor (bank 2 sensor 1)

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0153 code

In most cases, this repair will require specialized tools. The oxygen sensor commonly ceases up in the exhaust pipe and when this happens, an oxygen sensor tool and a heating agent will be necessary to complete the repair.

An oxygen sensor set can be purchased or rented from many auto part stores and a propane torch is commonly used as the heating agent.

Need help with a P0153 code?

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