P0162
O2 Sensor Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 3
Oxygen sensor (fuel & air)
Generic OBD-II
Medium
What it means
P0162 means the ECM has detected a fault in the oxygen sensor circuit for bank 2, sensor 3 — a downstream monitoring sensor on vehicles fitted with a third O2 sensor per bank. Because it's used for emissions monitoring rather than fuel control, the engine runs and starts normally; the main consequences are a check-engine light and an emissions-test failure.
Medium
Can I keep driving? Yes — this is a downstream monitoring sensor, so the car runs and starts normally; the impact is mainly on emissions.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Emissions-readiness monitor won't complete
- Failed emissions/smog test
- Little to no change in how the car drives
Common causes
Most likely first
- Faulty oxygen sensor (bank 2, sensor 3)Likely
- Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring/connector at the sensorCommon
- Blown fuse or heater-circuit faultCommon
- Exhaust leak near the sensorLess often
- Failed ECM/PCM (rare)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Check the bank 2 sensor 3 signal and heater status in live data.
- Inspect the sensor connector, wiring, and related fuse for opens or corrosion.
- Look for exhaust leaks near the sensor that could disturb its reading.
- Verify heater power and ground reach the sensor.
- Replace the oxygen sensor if it's faulty. Clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0162?+
Yes. This is a rear/monitoring oxygen sensor, so drivability is essentially unaffected. It will, however, cause an emissions failure and keep the readiness monitor from completing.
Can I just clear P0162?+
It returns once the ECM rechecks the sensor circuit. Repair the sensor or wiring first.
Related codes
Often seen with P0162
Read & clear P0162 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX