P0063
Fix within a few daysThe computer detects a problem with the heater circuit for the oxygen sensor located after the catalytic converter on the second bank of cylinders (Bank 2 Sensor 3). The circuit's voltage or resistance is too low.
Code P0063 means the Bank 2 Sensor 3 oxygen sensor heater circuit is low. Common causes: Faulty O2 sensor (80%), wiring issues (15%). Drivability: Yes, safe to drive. Repair cost: $50-$250 DIY, $200-$700 professional.
Can I Drive With P0063?
Yes, safe to drive
No restrictions, but fix within a few days to restore fuel economy and emissions control.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, loud noises, burning smell, rotten egg smell, significant power loss
Symptoms of P0063
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Reduced fuel economy
- 3Engine may run rough or hesitate (less common, but possible)
- 4Failed emissions test
Common Causes of P0063
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The heater element inside the oxygen sensor has failed, causing the circuit resistance to be too low or open.
80% of P0063 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring or connectors to the oxygen sensor can interrupt the heater circuit.
15% of P0063 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
A blown fuse or faulty relay supplying power to the oxygen sensor heater circuit can cause a low circuit condition.
4% of P0063 cases are fixed by replacing a fuse or relay
A rare internal fault in the engine computer can prevent it from properly controlling the oxygen sensor heater circuit.
1% of P0063 cases are fixed by replacing the ECM/PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 3 oxygen sensor's wiring harness and connector for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion. Ensure the connector is fully seated.
- Check your vehicle's fuse box diagram to locate and inspect the fuse for the oxygen sensor heater circuit. A blown fuse is a quick and cheap fix.
How to Diagnose P0063
- 1Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 3 oxygen sensor and its wiring/connector for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 2Locate and check the fuse for the oxygen sensor heater circuit (refer to your vehicle's service manual).
- 3Using a multimeter, test the resistance of the heater circuit terminals on the oxygen sensor itself.
- 4With the engine off and key on, check for 12V power and ground at the oxygen sensor connector using a multimeter.
- 5If the sensor heater resistance is out of specification or power/ground is missing, replace the oxygen sensor.
P0063 on Popular Vehicles
Toyota Camry
2007-2024P0063 on a Camry is almost always a failed heater in the downstream oxygen sensor on Bank 2. These sensors are exposed to extreme heat and vibrations, leading to heater element failure.
85% fixed by replacing the oxygen sensor
Honda Accord
2003-2024Honda Accords frequently experience P0063 due to the heater circuit failing in the Bank 2 Sensor 3 oxygen sensor. Corrosion in the connector can also be a factor, especially in areas with road salt.
80% fixed by replacing the oxygen sensor
Ford F-150
2004-2024On Ford F-150 trucks, P0063 typically indicates a failed heater in the Bank 2 Sensor 3 oxygen sensor. The sensor's location can make it susceptible to road debris or water intrusion, leading to wiring damage or sensor failure.
78% fixed by replacing the oxygen sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0063 mean?
P0063 indicates that your vehicle's computer has detected a low voltage or high resistance condition in the heater circuit of the oxygen sensor located after the catalytic converter on the second bank of cylinders (Bank 2 Sensor 3).
Can I drive with P0063?
Yes, you can drive safely with a P0063 code. The engine will likely run in 'open loop' mode, meaning it won't use that specific O2 sensor for fuel trim adjustments. This will cause reduced fuel economy and increased emissions, but it won't cause immediate damage.
Will P0063 clear itself?
No, P0063 will not clear itself. The underlying electrical fault in the oxygen sensor heater circuit or its wiring needs to be repaired. The Check Engine Light will remain on until the issue is fixed and the code is cleared, either by driving after the repair or using a scan tool.
How do I fix P0063 myself?
To fix P0063 yourself, first inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 3 oxygen sensor's wiring and connector for damage. Check the relevant fuse. If those are good, test the resistance of the oxygen sensor's heater circuit with a multimeter. If the resistance is out of specification, replace the oxygen sensor. You will need an O2 sensor socket for removal and installation.
How much does it cost to fix P0063?
The cost to fix P0063 yourself is typically $50-$250 for a new oxygen sensor. If you take it to a shop, expect to pay $200-$700, which includes the part and 1-2 hours of labor.
P0063 keeps coming back - why?
If P0063 keeps coming back, it means the root cause was not fully addressed. This often happens if the wiring or connector was the actual problem, not the sensor itself, or if a new sensor was faulty. Double-check all wiring, connections, and ensure the new sensor is functioning correctly. A rare possibility is a faulty Engine Control Module (ECM).
Will P0063 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0063 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 oxygen sensor heater means the emissions system is not operating as designed.
What's the difference between P0063 and P0161?
P0063 specifically indicates a 'low' condition in the heater control circuit for Bank 2 Sensor 3. P0161 is a more general 'malfunction' in the heater circuit for Bank 2 Sensor 2 (which is often the same physical sensor as Sensor 3, depending on vehicle architecture). Both point to an issue with the heater element or its circuit for the downstream O2 sensor on Bank 2.
P0063 on Toyota Camry?
For a Toyota Camry, P0063 most commonly points to a failed Bank 2 Sensor 3 oxygen sensor heater. These sensors are wear items and fail over time. Inspect the wiring carefully, but be prepared to replace the downstream O2 sensor on the bank without cylinder #1.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you test the resistance of the oxygen sensor's heater circuit?
Good answer: Yes, I measured the resistance and it was out of specification, indicating an internal heater failure in the sensor.
What did you find when checking for power and ground at the sensor connector?
Good answer: I confirmed 12V power and a good ground at the connector, which tells me the wiring to the sensor is intact and the fuse is good.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$250
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$200-$700
Save $150-$450 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-2 hours
Intermediate - requires getting under the vehicle, using a multimeter for electrical testing, and potentially an O2 sensor-specific socket.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0063 will lead to reduced fuel economy and increased emissions. While it won't cause immediate engine damage, the engine's computer cannot accurately monitor the catalytic converter's efficiency without a working downstream O2 sensor. This can mask other issues and potentially lead to premature catalytic converter failure if other problems develop unnoticed. A $100 O2 sensor fix now prevents a $1,000-$2,500 converter replacement later.
While You're In There...
If the O2 sensor is difficult to remove or if you suspect an exhaust leak near the sensor, replacing the gasket ensures a proper seal and prevents future leaks.
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
- Oxygen sensor socket (7/8 inch or 22mm)
- Ratchet and extensions
- Wrench set
- Wire brush (for cleaning threads)
P0063 is a common code related to a specific sensor. Most repairs are straightforward, involve replacing an O2 sensor, and your vehicle's emissions and fuel economy will return to normal afterward.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 3 oxygen sensor and its wiring. Look for any cuts, chafing, or corrosion on the wires and ensure the connector is securely plugged in.
Step 2: Check the fuse for the oxygen sensor heater circuit. If it's blown, replace it. If the fuse blows again, you have a short circuit that needs further diagnosis.
Step 3: If the wiring and fuse are good, use a multimeter to test the resistance of the heater circuit on the oxygen sensor itself. Compare the reading to your vehicle's service manual specifications. If it's out of range, replace the oxygen sensor (Bank 2 Sensor 3).