P0162 is an OBD-II trouble code indicating a malfunction in the oxygen sensor circuit for Bank 2 Sensor 3. This code is used on vehicles equipped with a third oxygen sensor in the exhaust system.
Because Sensor 3 is not used on every vehicle, the exact meaning and physical location can vary by manufacturer and engine configuration.
P0162 Location by Manufacturer
On vehicles that use three oxygen sensors on a bank, Sensor 3 is generally located farther downstream in the exhaust system than Sensor 2. Always verify the sensor designation using the vehicle-specific wiring diagram and service information.
Chevrolet / GMC
On applicable applications, check the oxygen sensor circuit, wiring, connector, power, and ground for the sensor identified as Bank 2 Sensor 3.
Toyota / Lexus
Sensor numbering can differ between Toyota and Lexus engine configurations. Confirm the exact sensor designation before diagnosis or replacement.
Nissan / Infiniti
On applicable multi-sensor exhaust systems, inspect the specified Bank 2 sensor wiring and connector, especially around the exhaust and catalytic converter area.
Jeep / RAM
Where the vehicle uses a Sensor 3 designation, inspect the downstream oxygen sensor circuit for wiring, connector, moisture, corrosion, and physical damage.
BMW
BMW applications can use different oxygen sensor configurations depending on the engine. Verify the exact sensor number and circuit using the engine-specific wiring diagram.
Ford
On applicable engines, confirm the exact oxygen sensor position before testing because sensor numbering varies with the exhaust configuration.
Important: Do not assume that every vehicle has a Bank 2 Sensor 3. Sensor 3 is application-dependent, and the manufacturer's service information should be used to confirm the location.
Symptoms of P0162
Check Engine Light
The Check Engine Light is commonly illuminated when P0162 is stored.
Increased Emissions
A malfunctioning oxygen sensor circuit can affect exhaust monitoring and emissions control.
Poor Fuel Economy
Fuel economy may be affected depending on the vehicle's control strategy and the underlying fault.
Reduced Performance
Some vehicles may experience hesitation or reduced performance, particularly when other engine faults are present.
Common Causes of P0162
Faulty Oxygen Sensor
The oxygen sensor may have an internal electrical failure.
Damaged Wiring
Broken, melted, shorted, or corroded wiring can cause a sensor circuit malfunction.
Bad Connector
Loose terminals, corrosion, water intrusion, or damaged connector pins can interrupt the circuit.
Power or Ground Problem
A missing power supply or poor ground can prevent the sensor circuit from operating correctly.
Exhaust Heat Damage
Oxygen sensor wiring located close to the exhaust can become brittle or melt from excessive heat.
Incorrect Sensor
An incorrectly installed or incompatible sensor can cause circuit-related faults.
Estimated Repair Cost for P0162
O2 Sensor Replacement
$100–$350 approximately, depending on the vehicle and sensor.
Wiring Repair
$50–$300 depending on the location and extent of damage.
Connector Repair
$50–$200+ depending on the connector and labor required.
Diagnostic Labor
$50–$150+ depending on the vehicle and diagnostic time.
These are general estimates only. Actual costs vary by vehicle, parts, labor rate, and the cause of P0162.
How to Fix P0162
The correct repair depends on the specific circuit fault. Diagnose the wiring and electrical circuit before replacing the oxygen sensor.
- Scan for additional trouble codes.
- Confirm that the vehicle actually uses a Bank 2 Sensor 3 configuration.
- Verify the exact sensor location using the vehicle wiring diagram.
- Inspect the sensor connector for corrosion or damaged terminals.
- Inspect the wiring for breaks, shorts, melting, or physical damage.
- Check sensor power and ground where applicable.
- Test the sensor circuit according to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Replace the sensor if testing confirms an internal failure.
- Clear the code and verify the repair with a road test.
Common Repair Mistakes
Assuming Every Vehicle Has Sensor 3
Not every vehicle uses a third oxygen sensor on Bank 2.
Replacing the Sensor Immediately
P0162 can be caused by wiring, connector, power, or ground problems.
Testing the Wrong Sensor
Confirm the exact Bank 2 Sensor 3 designation before testing or replacing components.
Ignoring Exhaust Heat
Inspect wiring close to the exhaust for melting, cracking, and insulation damage.
Ignoring Connector Problems
Moisture, corrosion, and loose terminals can create circuit faults that look like a failed sensor.
Can You Drive With P0162?
If the engine is running normally and there are no severe drivability symptoms, a vehicle with P0162 can usually be driven for a short period. However, the fault should be diagnosed promptly because a sensor circuit problem can affect emissions monitoring.
If the Check Engine Light is flashing, the engine is misfiring, or the vehicle has severe performance problems, further diagnosis should be performed before continuing to drive.
Related OBD-II Codes
P0156
Bank 2 Sensor 2 Circuit Malfunction. A circuit fault involving the downstream oxygen sensor.
P0160
Bank 2 Sensor 2 No Activity Detected. The ECM detects insufficient activity from the sensor.
P0161
Bank 2 Sensor 2 Heater Circuit Malfunction. A heater circuit fault involving Sensor 2.
P0163
Bank 2 Sensor 3 Low Voltage. The sensor circuit reports a lower-than-expected voltage.
P0164
Bank 2 Sensor 3 High Voltage. The sensor circuit reports a higher-than-expected voltage.
P0165
Bank 2 Sensor 3 Slow Response. The sensor response is slower than expected.
Recommended Diagnostic Tools
OBD-II Scan Tool
Used to read P0162, additional codes, freeze-frame data, and live sensor information.
Digital Multimeter
Used to test voltage, ground, continuity, and circuit resistance.
Vehicle Wiring Diagram
Helps identify the correct Bank 2 Sensor 3 wiring, power supply, ground, and ECM circuit.
Oscilloscope
Useful for advanced analysis of oxygen sensor signal behavior and circuit activity.
P0162 FAQ
What does code P0162 mean?
P0162 indicates an oxygen sensor circuit malfunction involving Bank 2 Sensor 3 on vehicles that use this sensor designation.
Where is Bank 2 Sensor 3 located?
On applicable vehicles, Sensor 3 is generally located farther downstream in the exhaust than Sensor 2. The exact position depends on the vehicle and engine.
Does every vehicle have Bank 2 Sensor 3?
No. Many vehicles do not use a Sensor 3 designation. Always verify the vehicle-specific sensor configuration before diagnosing P0162.
How do I fix P0162?
Confirm the sensor location, inspect the wiring and connector, check power and ground where applicable, test the circuit, and replace the sensor only when testing confirms that it has failed.
Can P0162 cause poor fuel economy?
It may affect fuel economy depending on the vehicle's control strategy, but the exact effect varies between applications.
Can I drive with P0162?
A short drive is usually possible if the engine runs normally and there are no severe symptoms, but the fault should be diagnosed promptly.
Final Result
P0162 indicates a malfunction in an oxygen sensor circuit associated with Bank 2 Sensor 3 on applicable vehicles. Because Sensor 3 configurations vary between manufacturers, the first step is to confirm the exact sensor and wiring configuration before replacing any parts.