O2 and A/F Sensor Diagnosis: Section 7
O2 and A/F Sensor Diagnosis: Section 7
Platinum Electrode
Solid Electrolyte
(Zirconia Element)
Platinum Electrode
Heater
Coating (Ceramic)
Learning Objectives: 1. Determine the condition of an O2 sensor, A/F sensor and heater
based on data and engine symptoms and determine appropriate
repair.
2. Use Modes 5, 6, and 7 to determine monitored O2 sensor results.
3. Accurately measure and interpret oxygen content of the exhaust
gases based on sensor signal data.
4. Describe the primary difference between the O2 sensor and the
A/F sensor.
5. Use Modes 6 and 7 to determine monitored A/F sensor results.
O2 Sensor
Locations
S1 designates the
oxygen sensor is before
the catalytic converter,
S2 after the catalytic
converter. B1 indicates B2 S1
the sensor is on the B1 S1
bank with cylinder No. 1.
B1 S2
Fig. 7-1
TL874f701
Overview The ECM uses an O2 sensor to ensure the A/F Ratio is correct for the
catalytic converter. Based on the oxygen sensor signal, the ECM’s fuel
control program adjusts the amount of fuel injected into the cylinder.
This program varies based on the type of O2 sensor.
There are different types of O2 sensors, but two of the more common
types are the:
OBD II vehicles require two O2 sensors: one before and one after the
catalytic converter. The O2 sensor, or A/F sensor before the catalytic
converter is used by the ECM to adjust the A/F Ratio. The O2 sensor
after the catalytic converter is primarily used for catalytic converter
efficiency control and monitoring. (See Section 8 Overview)
O2 Sensor The O2 sensor monitor checks for sensor circuit malfunctions, slow
Monitor response rate, and for a malfunction of the sensor’s heater circuit.
There is a DTC for each condition for each sensor. The sub-sensor(S2) is
not monitored for response rate. O2 sensors are required to be
monitored once per trip, however, the ECM continuously monitors O2
sensor operation.
When the ECM sees the right conditions, the ECM will test the O2
sensors for performance by measuring the signal response as the fuel
injected into the cylinder is varied. The faster the O2 sensor responds,
the better the sensor. Mode 5 will report the results of this monitor test.
The repair confirmation drive pattern in the Repair Manual provides the
driving conditions for the ECM to operate the O2 sensor monitor.
P0125 for DTC P0125 is stored when there is little or no signal response from the
O2 Sensor O2 sensor. Although the description in the Repair Manual states
“insufficient coolant temp for closed loop fuel control” for this code, this
can be one cause for no signal output from the O2 sensor. The sensor is
monitored for a rise in voltage to (0.45V) when:
• 140 seconds or more must have passed since the engine was started
This DTC is a one trip code, and will also set as a result of a problem
due to any of the following items:
• EGR system
• Fuel pressure
• Fuel injection
NOTE This DTC will set when a sensor output has very little or no activity.
HINT A lean condition or an inoperative sensor will have very little activity.
If the vehicle runs out of fuel, the A/F Ratio is lean and DTC P0125 may
be recorded. This DTC will also set if no signal is received by the ECM; for
example, an open circuit (broken wire).
P0130, P0150: This portion of the monitor is concerned with sensor voltage output.
O2 Sensor These DTC(s) set if the output voltage stays high or low during the test
Output Voltage period.
O2 Sensor Monitor
P0130, P0150 (Output Voltage)
Fig. 7-2
TL874f702
NOTE The failure threshold for switching can be as much as 1.1 seconds
(max).
O2 Sensor Monitor
P0133, P0153 (Response Rate)
Fig. 7-3
TL874f703
O2 Sensor
Detection
Driving Pattern
The detection driving
pattern shown will
provide the conditions
necessary for the
O2 Sensor to show a
response. If the sensor
output remains within the
failure threshold a DTC
will set when all test Fig. 7-4
parameters are met. TL874f704
Mode 5 This mode displays the test results of the O2 sensor test monitor. These
O2 Sensor values are stored values, not current values that are found in Mode 1
Monitoring (DATA LIST). Not all test values are applicable to all manufacturers. The
Test Results A/F sensor test values are not applicable and are not displayed in
Mode 5. Some vehicles use Non-Continuous Test Results mode to report
results.
The following is a definition for the displayed terms under Mode 5, O2S
Test Results:
• R>>L O2S V Rich to lean threshold voltage – voltage used by the ECM
to determine the boundary line when going from rich to lean
L>>R O2S V Lean to rich threshold voltage – voltage used by the ECM
to determine the boundary line when going from lean to rich
• TID $30 – The amount of time, used as a reference for the number
(counts) each time the O2 sensor signal crosses the low and high
sensor voltage points
TID $70 – The number of counts, determined by the number of
times the signal crossed the low and high sensor voltage points
O2 Sensor
Monitoring Screens - Mode 5 O2 SENSOR TEST (B1 - S1)
These screens are found under the LOW SW V............ 0.350V
CARB section, O2S Test results. HIGH SW V........... 0.550V
MIN O2S V........... 0.025V
MAX O2S V........... 0.790V
Time $31............. 0.04s
Time $32............. 0.04s
Fig. 7-5
TL874f705
O2 Sensor
Test Reference RICH - Low Oxygen State
Points - Mode 5 8
O2 Sensor 2 1
Voltage Output
9
6 5
O2 Sensor Counts
The ECM provides the number of counts in
a given time period. A count is when the
voltage signal first crosses the high or low
sensor voltage point.
2 4 6 8
High Sensor
Voltage Point
Low Sensor
Voltage Point
1 3 5 7
Fig. 7-7
TL874f707
Poor O2
Sensor Response
Poor O2 Sensor
response as seen
on an oscilloscope.
Fig. 7-8
TL874f708
P0136, P0156: The ECM monitors the output voltage of the O2 sensor. A DTC will set if
Sub O2 Sensor output voltage remains high or low during the test period. See Mode 5,
Output Voltage O2S Test Results.
Fig. 7-9
TL874f709
Fig. 7-10
TL874f403710
Sub O2
Sensor Detection
Driving Pattern
The detection driving
pattern shown will
provide the conditions
necessary for the Sub or
rear O2 Sensor to show
a response. If the sensor
output remains within the
failure threshold a DTC
will set when all test Fig. 7-11
parameters are met. TL874f711
P0135, P0141, All heated O2 sensors are monitored for abnormal heater condition. The
P0155, P0161: ECM checks the amount of current required for the sensor heater. If the
O2 Sensor current is too high or too low a DTC will be set.
Heater Monitor
Fig. 7-12
TL874f403712
O2 Sensor
DTC(s)
P0125: After the engine is warmed up, heated O2 sensor output does not indicate
Coolant RICH even when conditions (a), (b), (c) and (d) continue for at least 1.5
Temperature min.:
Insufficient for
Closed Loop a. Engine speed: 1,500 rpm or more
Operation (Bank
1 or 2 Sensor 1) b. Vehicle speed: 25 - 62 mph (40 - 100 km/h)
P0133: Response time for the heated O2 sensor’s voltage output to change from
Heated O2 rich to lean, or from lean to rich, is 1.1 sec. or more during idling after
Sensor Circuit the engine is warmed up.
Slow Response
(Bank 1 (two trip detection logic)
Sensor 1)
This DTC can be set due to other related parts failure.
P0135: Heater current exceeds 2A or heater current of 0.2A or less when the
Heated heater operates. Please confirm heater resistance specification in vehicle
O2 Sensor Repair Manual.
Heater Circuit
Malfunction (two trip detection logic)
(Bank 1
Sensor 1) This DTC can be set due to other related parts failure.
P0136: Voltage output of the heated O2 sensor (bank 1 sensor 2, bank 2 sensor
Heated O2 2) remains at 0.4V or more or 0.5V or less when the vehicle is driven at
Sensor Circuit 19 mph (30 km/h) or more after the engine is warmed up. Please
Malfunction confirm voltage specification in vehicle Repair Manual.
(Bank 1 Sensor 2)
(two trip detection logic)
P0141: Heater current exceeds 2A or heater current of 0.2A or less when the
Heated heater operates. Please confirm heater resistance specification in vehicle
O2 Sensor Repair Manual.
Heater Circuit
Malfunction (two trip detection logic)
(Bank 1 Sensor 2)
This DTC can be set due to other related parts failure.
P0153: Response time for the heated O2 sensor’s voltage output to change from
Heated O2 rich to lean, or from lean to rich, is 1.1 sec. or more during idling after
Sensor Circuit the engine is warmed up.
Slow Response
(Bank 2 Sensor 1) (two trip detection logic)
P0155: Heater current exceeds 2A or heater current of 0.2A or less when the
Heated heater operates. Please confirm heater resistance specification in vehicle
O2 Sensor Repair Manual.
Heater Circuit
Malfunction (two trip detection logic)
(Bank 2 Sensor 1)
This DTC can be set due to other related parts failure.
P0156: Voltage output of the heated O2 sensor (bank 1 sensor 2, bank 2 sensor
Heated O2 2) remains at 0.4V or more or 0.5V or less when the vehicle is driven at
Sensor Circuit 19 mph (30 km/h) or more after the engine is warmed up.
Malfunction
(Bank 2 Sensor 2) (two trip detection logic)
P0141: Heater current exceeds 2A or heater current of 0.2A or less when the
Heated O2 heater operates.
Sensor
Heater Circuit (two trip detection logic)
Malfunction
(Bank 2 Sensor 2) This DTC can be set due to other related parts failure.
The sub O2 sensors have two DTC(s), one for a sensor circuit malfunction
and one for the sub-sensor’s heater circuit malfunction. The sub-sensor
does not have a DTC for slow response because a sub-sensor shows very
little activity during normal operation. Each DTC requires a different
approach to diagnosis. Refer to the Repair Manual for the proper
diagnostic procedure to follow for each DTC.
The CARB section of the diagnostic tester and the Readiness Test
Confirmation procedure can be very useful for O2 sensor diagnosis,
particularly Modes 5, 6, and 7. The following screen flows are guides.
Varying conditions will have an effect on the outcome.
CONTINUOUS TESTS
ECU: $10 (Engine)
Number of Tests: 1
P0135
O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Pending Codes or Mode 7 reported
Malfunction (Bank 1, DTC P0135.
Sensor 1)
ECU: $10 (Engine)
Number of DTCs: 1
MIL ON
FREEZE FRAME 0
Fig. 7-13
Mode 6 and 7 displayed the reason for P0125, an O2 Sensor Heater not functioning.
TL874f713
A/F Sensor The A/F sensor monitor is similar to the O2 sensor monitor; however, the
Monitor A/F sensor has different characteristics. Therefore, the operating
parameters of the monitor also differ.
The A/F sensor monitor checks for sensor circuit malfunction, slow
response rate, and for a malfunction of the sensor’s heater circuit. There
is a DTC for each condition for each sensor. A/F sensors are required to
be monitored once per trip; however, the ECM does continuously monitor
A/F sensor operation.
When the ECM sees the right conditions, the ECM will test the A/F
sensors for performance by measuring the signal response as the fuel
injected into the cylinder is varied. The faster the A/F sensor responds,
the better the sensor. The results of this monitor test are NOT reported in
Mode 5. Mode 6, Non-Continuous Test Results is used to determine if the
A/F sensor passed or failed.
The repair confirmation drive pattern in the Repair Manual provides the
driving conditions for the ECM to operate the A/F sensor monitor.
ECM Monitored A/F Sensor Voltage (V)
Heater
Coating (Ceramic)
Fig. 7-14
Cover Exhaust Gas
TL874f714
A/F Sensor The A/F sensor is similar to the O2 sensor. It appears similar to the
O2 sensor, but it is constructed differently and has different operating
characteristics.
The A/F sensor is also referred to as a wide range or wide ratio sensor
because of its ability to detect A/F Ratios over a wide range.
The advantage of using the A/F sensor is that the ECM can more
accurately meter the fuel reducing emissions.
A/F Sensor
Detecting Circuit
The detection circuit,
located inside the ECM,
is needed for the A/F
Sensor to operate. The
A/F Sensor output
cannot be detected
externally. A Diagnostic
Tester is needed to read
A/F Sensor signal
output.
Fig. 7-15
TL874f715
Operation A detection circuit in the ECM detects the change and strength of current
flow and puts out a voltage signal relatively proportional to exhaust
oxygen content.
NOTE This voltage signal can only be measured by using the Diagnostic Tester
or OBD II compatible scan tool. The A/F sensor current output cannot be
accurately measured directly. If a Diagnostic Tester or OBD II compatible
scan tool is used refer to the Repair Manual for conversion, for the output
signal is different.
Air/Fuel Mixture
Exhaust Oxygen Content Current Flow Voltage Signal
Judged to be:
Stoichiometry
0
3.3 volts
14.7:1
NOTE The A/F sensor voltage output is the opposite of what happens in the
narrow range O2 sensor. Voltage output through the detection circuit
increases as the mixture gets leaner.
Fig. 7-16
TL874f716
P0125 for DTC P0125 is related to voltage output, although the description states
A/F Sensor insufficient coolant temp for closed loop fuel control. The A/F sensor is
monitored for activity (voltage change) when:
• 140 seconds or more must have passed since the engine was started
This DTC will set when a sensor output has very little or no activity.
HINT A lean condition or an inoperative sensor will have very little activity.
This DTC is a one trip code, and will also set as a result of a problem due
to any of the following items:
• EGR system
• Fuel pressure
• Fuel injection
P1130, P1150: This monitor is concerned with A/F sensor voltage output. These DTC(s)
A/F Sensor are found if the output voltage remains fixed for a predetermined period.
Output Voltage
Voltage output changes take place inside the ECM. The Diagnostic
NOTE Tester must be used for diagnosis.
Fig. 7-17
TL874f717
HINT If output voltage of A/F sensor remains at 3.30V, the sensor circuit may
be open. If output voltage of the A/F sensor remains 3.8V or more or
2.8V or less, the sensor circuit may be shorted.
P1133, P1153: The ECM monitors the A/F sensors response characteristics. If the sensor
A/F Sensor response rate deteriorates, a fault will be recorded. The response rate
Response Rate cannot be confirmed by tests performed at the sensor. The response rate
calculation is a function of the ECM only. The ECM compares the A/F
sensor’s response to the specifications stored in the ECM’s programming.
Fig. 7-18
TL874f718
A/F Sensor
Detection
Driving Pattern
The detection driving
pattern shown will
provide the conditions
necessary for the A/F
Sensor to show a
response (voltage
change). If the sensor
output remains within the
failure threshold, a DTC
will set when all test Fig. 7-19
parameters are met. TL874f719
P1135, P1155: All A/F sensors are monitored for abnormal heater condition. The ECM
A/F Sensor checks the amount of current required for the sensor heater. If the
Heater Monitor current is too high or too low, a DTC will be set. If the current level
detected is too high, the ECM will shut off the heater. When this
happens, a P0125 can set.
A/F Sensor
Heater Monitoring
P1135, P1155 (Circuit Current)
Fig. 7-20
TL874f720
A/F Sensor
DTC(s)
P0125: After the engine is warmed up, A/F sensor Output* does not change
Coolant when conditions (a), (b), (c), and (d) continue for at least 1.5 min.:
Temperature
Insufficient for a. Engine speed: 1,500 rpm or more
Closed Loop
Operation b. Vehicle speed: 25 – 62 mph (40 –100 km/h)
(Bank 1 or 2
Sensor 1) c. Throttle valve is not fully closed
P1130: DTC P1130 will set from one of the following conditions:
Circuit Range/
Performance • Voltage output of A/F sensor remains at 3.8V or more, or 2.8V or
Malfunction less, with engine running after the engine is warmed up
(Bank 1 Sensor 1)
• Voltage output of A/F sensor does not change from 3.30V, with
engine running after the engine is warmed up
P1133: After the engine reaches operating temperature, engine speed is 1,400
Circuit Response rpm or more, vehicle speed 38 mph (60 km/h) or more, and if the A/F
Malfuntion sensor signal response is weaker than normal, DTC P1133 sets.
(Bank 1 Sensor 1)
(two trip detection logic)
P1135: When the heater operates, heater current exceeds 8A or heater current
Heater Circuit is 0.25A or less. Please confirm heater resistance specification in the
Malfunction vehicle Repair Manual.
(Bank 1 Sensor 1)
(two trip detection logic, early models; phased change to one trip
detection beginning 2001 model.)
P1150: DTC P1150 will set from one of the following conditions:
Circuit Range/
Performance • Voltage output of A/F sensor remains at 3.8V or more, or 2.8V or less,
Malfunction during engine running after the engine is warmed up
(Bank 2 Sensor 1)
• Voltage output of A/F sensor does not change from 3.30V, during
engine running after the engine is warmed up
P1153: After the engine reaches operating temperature, engine speed is 1,400
Circuit Response rpm or more, vehicle speed 38 mph (60 km/h) or more, and if the A/F
Malfunction sensor signal response is weaker than normal, DTC P1133 sets.
(Bank 2 Sensor 1)
(two trip detection logic)
P1155: When the heater operates, heater current exceeds 8A or heater current is
Heater Circuit 0.25A or less. Please confirm heater resistance specification in vehicle
Malfunction Repair Manual.
(Bank 2 Sensor 1)
(two trip detection logic, early models; phased change to one trip
detection beginning 2001 model.)
NOTE When an A/F sensor DTC is found, it is important to look at each DTC
description carefully before proceeding with diagnosis. In addition to
P0125, the A/F sensors each have three DTC(s), one for a sensor
range/performance malfunction, one for response malfunction, and one
for the sensor’s heater circuit malfunction. Each DTC requires a different
approach to diagnosis. Refer to the Repair Manual for the proper
diagnostic procedure to follow for each DTC.
Planar Cup
Planar
A/F Sensor
The newer planar A/F
sensor can be identified
by its shorter body.
65
sensor has the same
52
detecting range as the
previous, cup type A/F
sensor.
Heater
30
30
Planar A/F A second generation A/F sensor (referred to here as the planar A/F
Sensor sensor) was developed to meet more stringent emission regulations. This
Operation A/F sensor reaches operating temperature faster than the previous
(referred to here as the cup element) A/F sensor. This allows the ECM to
go into closed loop fuel control faster when the engine is cold reducing
cold start emissions.
The planar A/F sensor has the same detecting range and signal
characteristics as the previous cup element A/F sensor. The major
differences are:
NOTE This A/F sensor is not interchangeable with the older, cup element
A/F sensor.
The heater is imbedded into the aluminum oxide. When the heater is on,
the aluminum oxide conducts heat directly to the zirconium dioxide layer
bring the A/F sensor to operating temperature quickly.
Signal
Fig. 7-23
TL874f723
Planar A/F The detection logic for the planar A/F sensor is the same as the cup
Sensor Signal element A/F sensor EXCEPT for heater related DTCS. Please see the
Detection DTCs information on A/F sensor signal output DTCs P0125, P1130, P1133,
P1150, and P1153 in this section.
Planar A/F The heater circuit and operation is similar to the cup element, though
Sensor Heater amperage specifications are different. The heater monitor continuously
Detection DTCs detects over current or under current conditions and will set DTC in one
trip. Therefore, heater related DTCs (such as P1135, P1155) will be set
on the first trip when a malfunction is detected.
The heater resistance for the planar AF sensor is slightly higher than
the cup element A/F sensor. Heater resistance is checked with a DVOM.
A/F Sensor
NON-CONTINUOUS TESTS
Diagnosis Case
Using CARB Time$01 CID$01........ Pass Driving the vehicle after the DTCs
Time$02 CID$01........ Pass were cleared, TIME$07 showed FAIL,
Time$02 CID$02........ Pass A/F Sensor Heater.
Time$02 CID$03........ Pass
Time$02 CID$04........ Pass
Time$04 CID$02........ Pass
Time$05 CID$01........ Pass
Time$05 CID$02........ Pass
Time$06 CID$01........ Pass
Time$06 CID$10........ Pass
Time$07 CID$01........ Pass
Time$07 CID$10........ Fail
CONTINUOUS TESTS
ECU: $10 (Engine) Pending codes or Mode 7 reported
Number of Tests: 1
DTC P1150
P1150
Manufacturer Controlled
Fuel and Air Metering
ECU: $10 (Engine)
Number of DTCs: 1
MIL ON
Further driving on the same trip
P0125
Insufficient Coolant produced DTC P0125, and the MIL
Temperature for Closed turned on.
Loop Fuel Control
FREEZE FRAME 0
Fig. 7-24
Conclusion: Mode 6 and 7 displayed the reason for P0125, an A/F Sensor Heater not functioning.
TL874f724
(Instructors’Copy)
Vehicle Year/ Prod. Date Engine Transmission
Worksheet Objectives
In this worksheet, you will use the Diagnostic Tester to test A/F sensor performance and compare to
specifications to determine condition.
• Vehicle EWD
• Diagnostic Tester
HAFR (+)
TL874f7w71
This test confirms the operation of which components and continuity of which circuits?
3. Using the repair manual(s), compare the resistance of an O2 sensor heater to the A/F sensor heater.
1. Record A/F sensor engine idling. Briefly, snap the throttle wide open and release. What happened?
Yes
3. Reconnect vacuum hose.
4. Predict what will happen to A/F signal voltage and amperage if more fuel is added?
Voltage goes up
Test or confirm repair method using CARB OBD II Readiness Tests.
1. Access READINESS TEST Mode under CARB OBD II. What does it report?
Case 1
After DTCs were cleared, an A/F sensor equipped vehicle was driven one trip according to the drive pattern.
Answer the following questions using the listed screen prints.
TL874f7w71
The A/F Sensor and heater evaluations have not been determined.
3. What area(s) is affected?
Inconclusive
4. Will there be DTC(s) and Freeze Frame?
No
Case 2
An A/F sensor equipped vehicle was driven after DTCs were cleared. Answer the questions from the following
screens.
TL874f7w71
The O2 (A/F) HTR did run and failed. The A/F Sensor monitor evaluation has not been determined.
2. What area(s) is affected?
Not on the first trip for heater, but P0125 will set if driven properly.
Case 3
After DTCs were cleared, an A/F sensor equipped vehicle was driven one trip according to the drive pattern.
Answer the following questions using the listed screen prints.
TL874f7w71
The A/F Sensor, circuit or some problem that can cause the A/F Sensor not to properly respond.
3. Will there be DTC(s) and Freeze Frame?
Not on the first trip unless the condition is severe enough to set DTC P0125. Pending DTC can be seen.
Case 4
After DTCs were cleared, an A/F sensor equipped vehicle was driven one trip according to the drive pattern.
The MIL illuminated. Answer the following questions using the listed screen prints.
TL874f7w71
Review this sheet as you are doing the worksheet. Check each category after completing the
worksheet and instructor presentation. Ask the instructor if you have questions. The comments
section is for you to write where to find the information, questions, etc.
Topic Comment
(Instructors’Copy)
Vehicle Year/ Prod. Date Engine Transmission
Worksheet Objectives
In this worksheet, you will use the Diagnostic Tester and to check and test O2 sensor monitor performance
and determine needed action.
• Vehicle EWD
• Diagnostic Tester
Case 1
Answer the following from the screen shots. The O2 sensor equipped vehicle was driven after clearing DTCs.
TL874f7w72
1. What is the status of the O2S monitor and O2S HTR heater monitor?
Inconclusive, no determination
2. What does the Readiness Test indicate?
Case 2
Answer the following questions from the screen shot.
TL874f7w72
Low SW V
High SW V
Min O2S V
Max O2S V
Time $31
Time $32
Low and high sensor voltage parameter for switch time calculations.
3. What does Min/Max O2S mean and how is this information useful?
The time the sensor crosses the high/low points. Indicates response.
5. Is the above O2 sensor good or bad?
Good
Case 3
An O2 sensor equipped vehicle was driven after DTCs were cleared. Answer the questions from the
following screens.
TL874f7w72
The O2 HTR did run and failed. For O2S EVAL, O2S Test Results indicate poor resp.onse
2. What area(s) is affected?
O2 heater circuit.
3. Will there be DTC(s) and Freeze Frame?
Not on the first trip for heater, but P0125 will set if driven properly.
Yes
2. Reconnect vacuum hose.
3. Predict what will happen to O2 sensor signal voltage if more fuel is added?
Review this sheet as you are doing the worksheet. Check each category after completing the
worksheet and instructor presentation. Ask the instructor if you have questions. The comments
section is for you to write where to find the information, questions, etc.
Topic Comment