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P0154 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 2 Sensor 1)". 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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02 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 2 Sensor 1)
The oxygen sensor’s purpose is to send information to the power control module (PCM) regarding the amount of oxygen that exists in the exhaust. The power control module uses that information to regulate the amount of fuel that is released into the engine. The goal of which, is to maintain the proper ratio of air and fuel.
When the oxygen sensor is working properly, it will rapidly switch from high voltage (rich exhaust) to low voltage (lean exhaust). If the oxygen sensor fails to switch back and forth or gets stuck either the high voltage or low voltage, this will result in the power control module (PCM) storing the P0154 trouble code, and the vehicle’s Check Engine Light will come on.
The Check Engine light will come on and depending on the vehicle type, rich or lean codes may be present in addition to the P0154 trouble code.
The vehicle may consume fuel at a higher rate of speed than what is normal.
Another possible symptom is that the vehicle runs rough or stalls out after starting.
These symptoms will vary based on vehicle type and severity of the problem.
Uses an OBD-II scanner to make a record of all present trouble codes and freeze frame data
Inspects the wires leading to the oxygen sensor and checks for any broken wires or exposed wires, these should be repaired or replaced as necessary
Checks to see if these wires are rubbing against any of the exhaust components
Inspects the wiring for water and oil saturation at the connector, If there is oil and/or water in the connector, fix the oil or water leak. The oxygen sensor will also need to be replaced if so.
Inspects the exhaust around the oxygen sensor and checks for holes, as this will cause an improper reading from the oxygen sensor
Listens to the engine for escaping air and checks for broken vacuum lines
Inspects the tail pipe to check for oil or coolant in the exhaust system
Brings the 02 oxygen sensor up to operating temperature by running the vehicle.
Next, the mechanic uses an OBD-II scanner to see if the sensor voltages are switching properly by viewing the live data. If they are not switching properly, the oxygen sensor will need to be replaced.
If they observe that the sensor voltages are switching properly, this is an indication that there is an intermittent problem with the oxygen sensor. It is common for there to be an intermittent problem with the wires leading to the sensor as well.
While viewing the live data, checks for a slow or no response from the oxygen sensor, as this is an indication that the oxygen sensor needs to be replaced
The most common mistake when diagnosing the P0154 trouble code is replacing the oxygen sensor without first inspecting the other components of the system.
It is important to check for holes in the exhaust near the location of the oxygen sensor, air leaks in the intake, and oil and or water saturation at the connector. All of these components should be inspected before changing the oxygen sensor.
This code is considered to be serious because of the way it affects the drivability of the vehicle.
It is also possible for the vehicle to misfire and cut off. At highway speeds this would be especially dangerous, so it is a problem that should be addressed immediately.
It is very common for the oxygen sensor to cease in the exhaust pipe. If this happens it will be necessary to have an oxygen sensor removal tool as well as a heating element to complete this repair properly.
A propane torch works well as the heating agent for this repair. An oxygen sensor set can be purchased from any auto part store and many auto part stores rent this set as well.
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