P2276
O2 Sensor Signal Biased/Stuck Lean Bank 2 Sensor 3
Fuel & air metering
Generic OBD-II
Medium
What it means
P2276 means the oxygen sensor on bank 2, sensor position 3 is reporting a signal that is biased or stuck lean — showing too much oxygen in the exhaust. This is a deep downstream sensor used mainly for monitoring, so the code most often reflects a failing sensor, wiring fault, or exhaust leak rather than a serious engine problem.
Medium
Can I keep driving? Usually drivable, but expect a check-engine light and possibly slightly worse fuel economy until the downstream oxygen sensor circuit is repaired.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Slightly higher fuel consumption
- Occasional rough running or engine surge
- Often no obvious drivability change
Common causes
Most likely first
- Failed downstream (bank 2, sensor 3) oxygen sensorLikely
- Corroded or loose connector at the sensorCommon
- Open or shorted wiring in the sensor circuitCommon
- Exhaust leak upstream of the sensor drawing in fresh airLess often
- A genuinely lean condition (vacuum leak, low fuel pressure, weak injector)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data and inspect the bank 2, sensor 3 oxygen sensor connector and wiring for corrosion or damage.
- Check for exhaust leaks ahead of the sensor that could lean out its reading.
- Compare the sensor's live signal to a known-good sensor; a signal stuck lean points to the sensor.
- Rule out a real lean cause (vacuum leak, fuel pressure) if upstream fuel-trim codes are also present.
- Replace the oxygen sensor if it fails testing, then clear and re-test.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P2276?+
Generally yes. This is a far-downstream oxygen sensor used mostly for monitoring, so the risk is emissions and slightly poorer economy rather than engine damage. Repair it before an emissions test.
Can I just clear P2276?+
It will come back within a few drive cycles unless the sensor, wiring, or lean condition is fixed.
Related codes
Often seen with P2276
Read & clear P2276 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