P0167
O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 3
Fuel & air metering
Generic OBD-II
Medium
What it means
P0167 means the ECM detected a fault in the heater circuit of the bank 2, sensor 3 oxygen sensor. The heater brings the sensor up to operating temperature quickly so it can read accurately soon after start-up. The engine runs normally, but until it's fixed the sensor warms up slowly, which delays emissions readiness and can trip the light.
Medium
Can I keep driving? Safe to keep driving — the heater only helps the sensor reach temperature faster; it doesn't affect how the engine runs or starts.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Usually no noticeable change in drivability
- Slower emissions-monitor readiness after a cold start
- May fail an emissions or readiness test
Common causes
Most likely first
- Failed oxygen-sensor heater element (bank 2, sensor 3)Likely
- Open or shorted heater circuit wiringCommon
- Blown fuse feeding the heater circuitCommon
- Corroded or loose connector at the sensorLess often
- Faulty ECM/PCM heater driver (rare)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and check the fuse that supplies the heater circuit.
- Inspect the sensor connector and wiring for damage or corrosion.
- Measure the heater resistance across the sensor's heater terminals against spec.
- Replace bank 2 sensor 3 if the heater element is open or out of range.
- Repair wiring or connector faults. Clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P0167?+
Yes — the engine runs the same. The main downside is slower emissions readiness, so fix it before an emissions test.
Can I just clear P0167?+
It comes back once the ECM re-checks the heater circuit. The heater element or wiring needs to be repaired first.
Related codes
Often seen with P0167
Read & clear P0167 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