P0059
Fix within 1-2 weeksOxygen Sensor Heater Resistance (Bank 2 Sensor 1)
Code P0059 means your Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor's heater circuit has incorrect resistance. Common causes: Faulty O2 sensor (80%), wiring issues (15%). Drivability: Yes, safe to drive. Repair cost: $100-$250 DIY, $200-$500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0059?
Yes, safe to drive
No restrictions, but fix within 1-2 weeks to restore fuel economy and reduce emissions.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light (indicates a severe misfire), loud exhaust noises, burning smell, or significant power loss.
Symptoms of P0059
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Reduced fuel economy
- 3Engine may run rough or hesitate slightly
- 4Increased exhaust emissions
Common Causes of P0059
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The heater element inside the oxygen sensor has failed, causing incorrect resistance.
80% of P0059 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Corroded, damaged, or loose wiring to the oxygen sensor heater circuit prevents proper operation.
15% of P0059 cases are fixed by repairing wiring
A blown fuse in the oxygen sensor heater circuit cuts off power to the heater element.
4% of P0059 cases are fixed by replacing a fuse
A rare internal fault in the engine computer can prevent it from properly controlling the O2 sensor heater.
1% of P0059 cases are fixed by replacing the ECM/PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor's wiring harness and connector for any visible damage, fraying, or corrosion. Ensure the connector is fully seated.
- Locate and check the fuse for the oxygen sensor heater circuit in your vehicle's fuse box. A blown fuse is a quick and cheap fix.
How to Diagnose P0059
- 1Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor and its wiring for damage or corrosion.
- 2Check the fuse for the oxygen sensor heater circuit (consult your vehicle's service manual for location).
- 3Disconnect the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor and use a multimeter to measure the resistance across the heater terminals (usually two white wires). Compare to factory specifications.
- 4With the sensor disconnected, check for 12V power and ground at the vehicle's wiring harness connector for the heater circuit.
- 5If the sensor resistance is out of spec or there's no power/ground, replace the oxygen sensor.
P0059 on Popular Vehicles
Toyota Camry
2007-2024On V6 models, P0059 is a frequent code. The Bank 2 Sensor 1 is often the passenger side upstream sensor. The heater element inside the sensor fails due to age and heat cycling.
90% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Honda Accord
2003-2024V6 Accords can trigger P0059 when the upstream O2 sensor on the rear bank (Bank 2) experiences heater circuit degradation. Wiring issues are less common than sensor failure.
85% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Ford F-150
2004-2024On V8 F-150s, P0059 points to the upstream O2 sensor on the passenger side. Exposure to road debris or exhaust leaks can sometimes contribute to premature sensor failure.
80% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0059 mean?
P0059 indicates an issue with the heater circuit resistance for the upstream oxygen sensor on Bank 2. This sensor is located before the catalytic converter on the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder #1.
Can I drive with P0059?
Yes, you can drive safely. The engine will likely run in 'open loop' mode, meaning it won't use the O2 sensor for fuel trim adjustments. This results in reduced fuel economy and increased emissions, but it will not cause immediate damage.
Will P0059 clear itself?
No, P0059 will not clear itself. The underlying electrical fault in the heater circuit or the sensor itself requires repair. The Check Engine Light will remain on until the problem is fixed and the code is cleared.
How do I fix P0059 myself?
Start by checking the fuse for the O2 sensor heater circuit. Then, visually inspect the sensor's wiring and connector for damage. If those are good, use a multimeter to test the resistance of the O2 sensor's heater element. If the resistance is out of specification, replace the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor.
How much does it cost to fix P0059?
The cost to fix P0059 yourself is typically $100-$250 for a new oxygen sensor. If you take it to a professional shop, expect to pay $200-$500, which includes parts and labor.
P0059 keeps coming back - why?
If P0059 keeps returning, it points to an incomplete or incorrect repair. This could mean the new oxygen sensor is faulty, there's an intermittent wiring issue you missed, or the problem lies deeper in the vehicle's electrical system or even the ECM (though this is rare).
Will P0059 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0059 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure in most jurisdictions, and the faulty O2 sensor prevents the emissions system from operating correctly.
What's the difference between P0059 and P0053?
P0059 refers to an issue with the heater resistance for the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor. P0053 is the identical code but for the Bank 1 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor. They indicate the same type of problem, just on different sides of the engine.
P0059 on Toyota Camry?
P0059 on a V6 Toyota Camry (or other V6/V8 Toyota/Lexus models) is a common occurrence. It almost always indicates a failed heater element within the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor itself. Replacing the sensor typically resolves the issue.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you test the resistance of the Bank 2 Sensor 1 heater circuit with a multimeter?
Good answer: Yes, I measured the resistance and it was outside the manufacturer's specified range, indicating an internal failure of the sensor's heater.
Did you check for power and ground at the O2 sensor connector?
Good answer: Yes, I confirmed there's proper voltage and ground at the connector, which means the wiring and fuse are good, pointing to the sensor itself.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$100-$250
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$200-$500
Save $100-$250 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-2 hours
Intermediate - Requires a multimeter for testing and potentially an O2 sensor socket for removal, which are not standard beginner tools. However, the process is generally accessible.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0059 means your engine runs with an inaccurate fuel-air mixture. This leads to consistently reduced fuel economy and higher emissions. Over a very long period, a consistently rich or lean condition can put extra stress on your catalytic converter, potentially leading to its premature failure, which is a $800-$2,500 repair.
While You're In There...
If the O2 sensor is difficult to remove or you suspect an exhaust leak nearby, replacing the exhaust gasket at the same time prevents future leaks and ensures proper sensor function.
Applying anti-seize to the threads of the new O2 sensor prevents it from seizing in the exhaust pipe, making future removal much easier.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II scan tool
- Multimeter
- O2 sensor socket (7/8" or 22mm)
- Ratchet and extensions
- Wire brush (for cleaning threads)
P0059 is a common code related to a specific sensor. The repair is straightforward for most DIYers, and your engine will run more efficiently afterward.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Perform a thorough visual inspection of the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor and its wiring. Look for any signs of damage, melting, or corrosion on the wires and connector. Also, check the relevant fuse in your vehicle's fuse box.
Step 2: If the visual inspection and fuse check don't reveal the problem, use a multimeter to test the resistance of the heater circuit within the O2 sensor itself. Compare your reading to the manufacturer's specifications (you'll find this in a service manual or online).
Step 3: If the sensor's heater resistance is out of spec, or if you confirmed power and ground at the connector but the sensor isn't heating, you will likely need a new Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor. Ensure you get the correct part for your specific vehicle.