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P0156 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for "02 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 2)". 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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Oxygen Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 2)
The purpose of the oxygen sensor is to monitor the amount of oxygen present in the exhaust and relay this information to the power control module (PCM). As the amount of oxygen increases or decreases, the oxygen sensor fluctuates between a low voltage and a high voltage.
If the oxygen sensor remains at a low voltage for an extended period of time, or is simply not active at all, the P0156 trouble code will be stored by the power control module (PCM) and the Check Engine Light will come on as an indication to the driver that there is a problem in the engine.
Drivers may not notice any symptoms associated with the P0156 trouble code. The Check Engine Light will come on, which is the most noticeable symptom, and there may be a loss of fuel economy. The vehicle will also have an increase of pollutants that it is emitting into the environment.
An OBD-II scanner is used to make a record of all trouble codes that have been stored by the power control module (PCM).
The oxygen sensor live data on the OBD-II scanner is reviewed to make an observation as to whether the oxygen sensor is working properly.
They will be able to make a conclusion by noting whether the oxygen sensor is switching from low voltage to high voltage as it should.
Using the OBD-II scanner, they will view live data for the fuel injectors to make sure they are working properly.
The oxygen sensor wiring will be inspected for shorted, broken, or exposed wires.
The engine will be checked for escaping air. This could be an indication of vacuum leaks or broken vacuum lines and then exhaust will be inspected for holes.
The mistake that is most commonly made when diagnosing the P0156 trouble code is automatically replacing the oxygen sensor without inspecting any other component. The oxygen sensor is not always the problem, and replacing it does not always remedy the problem.
Consideration should be given to the condition of the wiring, exhaust, vacuum lines, intake and fuel injectors.
This code is not generally considered a serious one. However, the driver may experience an increase of fuel consumption and while in this condition, and the vehicle will let off more pollutants into the environment.
At times, depending on the vehicle, the oxygen sensor may be hard to reach. An oxygen sensor set may be needed to remove the sensor. It is also common for the oxygen sensor to cease up in the exhaust and to be removed properly by a heating element, such as a propane torch, in addition to the oxygen sensor set.
YourMechanic offers certified mechanics who will come to your home or office to diagnose and repair your vehicle. Get a quote and book an appointment online or speak to a service advisor at 1-800-701-6230 to help resolve this issue.
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