Fault Code Description: P0167 means the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a malfunction in the oxygen (O2) sensor heater circuit for Bank 2 Sensor 3.
The heater inside the oxygen sensor helps the sensor reach its operating temperature quickly. If the ECM detects an electrical problem with this heater circuit, it can store P0167 and turn on the Check Engine Light.
What Does P0167 Mean?
OBD-II code P0167 indicates a problem with the heater circuit of the O2 sensor located at Bank 2 Sensor 3.
The fault can be caused by a failed O2 sensor heater, damaged wiring, a blown fuse, poor power supply, bad ground, or a damaged connector.
P0167
O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction.
Bank 2
The engine bank opposite the bank containing cylinder number 1.
Sensor 3
The third O2 sensor position used by the applicable exhaust system.
P0167 O2 Sensor Location
The exact location of Bank 2 Sensor 3 depends on the engine and emissions configuration.
On vehicles equipped with three oxygen sensors on a bank, Sensor 3 is generally positioned farther downstream in the exhaust system. However, sensor numbering is manufacturer-specific, so always confirm the location using the vehicle wiring diagram or service information.
P0167 Nissan
P0167 can appear on applicable Nissan vehicles when the ECM detects a malfunction in the Bank 2 Sensor 3 O2 sensor heater circuit.
Check the sensor connector, heater power supply, ground, wiring, and fuse before replacing the sensor.
P0167 Chevy
On applicable Chevrolet vehicles, the correct Bank 2 Sensor 3 location depends on the engine and exhaust configuration.
Inspect the O2 sensor wiring around the exhaust for melted insulation, damaged connectors, corrosion, or an open heater circuit.
P0167 Dodge
Applicable Dodge vehicles can set P0167 when the ECM detects an electrical problem in the heater circuit of the designated Bank 2 Sensor 3 oxygen sensor.
Inspect the heater circuit and its power supply, especially if the code appeared after exhaust or engine work.
Symptoms of P0167
Check Engine Light
The Check Engine Light is the most common symptom.
Increased Emissions
The sensor may take longer to reach its operating temperature.
Reduced Fuel Economy
Fuel economy may be affected depending on the vehicle and operating conditions.
Cold-Start Issues
Some vehicles may show abnormal emissions or sensor operation during cold starts.
Common Causes of P0167
Failed O2 Sensor Heater
The internal heating element inside the oxygen sensor may be open or damaged.
Blown Fuse
A blown O2 sensor heater fuse can interrupt power to the heater circuit.
Damaged Wiring
Heat from the exhaust can melt or damage the heater circuit wiring.
Bad Connector
Corrosion, loose terminals, or damaged connector pins can interrupt the heater circuit.
Power or Ground Problem
Missing voltage or a poor ground can prevent the O2 sensor heater from operating.
How to Fix P0167
The correct repair depends on the actual cause. The oxygen sensor should not be replaced before checking the heater circuit.
- Scan the vehicle and record P0167 and any additional codes.
- Confirm the exact Bank 2 Sensor 3 location.
- Inspect the O2 sensor connector for corrosion or loose terminals.
- Inspect the wiring for melted, broken, or shorted wires.
- Check the related O2 sensor heater fuse.
- Verify power supply to the heater circuit.
- Check the heater ground circuit where applicable.
- Measure the resistance of the O2 sensor heater according to manufacturer specifications.
- Replace the O2 sensor if the internal heater has failed.
- Clear the code and perform a drive cycle to verify the repair.
Estimated Repair Cost for P0167
O2 Sensor Replacement
$100–$350 approximately, depending on the vehicle and sensor.
Wiring Repair
$50–$300+ depending on the location and severity of the damage.
Connector Repair
$50–$200+ depending on the connector and labor required.
Diagnostic Labor
$50–$150+ depending on diagnostic time and vehicle.
These are general estimates only. Actual repair costs vary by vehicle, parts prices, labor rates, and location.
Common Repair Mistakes
Replacing the Sensor Immediately
P0167 does not automatically prove that the oxygen sensor itself is defective.
Ignoring the Fuse
A blown heater fuse can cause the same fault and should be checked first.
Ignoring Exhaust Heat Damage
O2 sensor wiring located close to the exhaust can become melted or damaged.
Testing the Wrong Sensor
Always confirm Bank 2 Sensor 3 for the specific engine before testing or replacing a sensor.
Can You Drive With P0167?
In many cases, the vehicle can be driven for a short period with P0167 if the engine is running normally. However, the problem should be repaired because the O2 sensor heater is important for bringing the sensor to operating temperature and controlling emissions.
If the vehicle has severe running problems, a flashing Check Engine Light, or additional serious fault codes, it should be inspected before continued driving.
P0167 vs P1167
P0167 and P1167 are different codes. P1167 is not another description of P0167 and should not be diagnosed using the P0167 procedure.
If your scan tool displays P1167, use the manufacturer-specific definition for that vehicle.
Related OBD-II Codes
P0162
O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction, Bank 2 Sensor 3.
P0163
O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage, Bank 2 Sensor 3.
P0164
O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage, Bank 2 Sensor 3.
P0165
O2 Sensor Circuit Slow Response, Bank 2 Sensor 3.
P0166
O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected, Bank 2 Sensor 3.
P0167 FAQ
What is a P0167 code?
P0167 means the ECM has detected a malfunction in the O2 sensor heater circuit for Bank 2 Sensor 3.
How do you fix P0167?
Check the O2 sensor heater fuse, power supply, ground, wiring, connector, and heater resistance. Replace the sensor if testing confirms that its internal heater has failed.
How do you fix an oxygen sensor heater failure?
First determine whether the problem is the sensor itself or the external heater circuit. Check the fuse, wiring, power, ground, connector, and sensor heater resistance before replacing the sensor.
Where is the O2 sensor heater circuit located?
The heater circuit is integrated into the oxygen sensor and connected through the sensor wiring harness. The exact Bank 2 Sensor 3 position depends on the vehicle and engine.
Can a blown fuse cause P0167?
Yes. A blown fuse can interrupt power to the oxygen sensor heater and cause a heater circuit malfunction.
Does P0167 mean the O2 sensor is bad?
Not necessarily. A damaged wire, connector, fuse, power supply, or ground can also cause P0167.
Is P0167 a serious code?
P0167 is usually not an immediate engine-damage code, but it should be diagnosed because it can increase emissions and may indicate an electrical problem.
What is the difference between P0167 and P1167?
P0167 is a generic OBD-II code for an O2 sensor heater circuit malfunction on Bank 2 Sensor 3. P1167 is a separate code whose meaning depends on the manufacturer and vehicle.
Final Result
P0167 indicates an O2 sensor heater circuit malfunction on Bank 2 Sensor 3. The most effective diagnosis is to verify the sensor location, check the heater fuse, inspect the wiring and connector, test the heater power and ground, measure heater resistance, and replace the O2 sensor only when testing confirms that the internal heater has failed.