P0136
Fix within 1-2 weeksThe oxygen sensor after the catalytic converter on Bank 1 is not sending the correct electrical signal to your engine computer. This sensor monitors the exhaust gases after they've passed through the converter.
Code P0136 means your downstream O2 sensor (Bank 1 Sensor 2) has an electrical circuit issue. Common causes: Faulty O2 sensor (80%), wiring damage (15%), exhaust leak (5%). Drivability: Yes, safe to drive. Repair cost: $50-$200 DIY, $150-$500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0136?
Yes, safe to drive
No restrictions
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light (indicates a severe misfire, not typically associated with P0136), loud exhaust noises (indicates a major exhaust leak that needs immediate attention).
Symptoms of P0136
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Failed emissions test
- 3Possibly slightly reduced fuel economy (less common for downstream sensor)
- 4No noticeable drivability issues
Common Causes of P0136
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The sensor itself has failed internally and cannot accurately report exhaust gas oxygen levels or its internal heater circuit is faulty.
80% of P0136 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Frayed wires, corrosion in the connector, or a loose connection prevents the sensor from communicating properly with the engine computer.
15% of P0136 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
An exhaust leak near the downstream oxygen sensor can allow outside air to enter the exhaust stream, causing the sensor to read incorrectly.
5% of P0136 cases are fixed by repairing an exhaust leak
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor and its wiring for any physical damage, cuts, or corrosion.
- Check for any exhaust leaks near the sensor. Listen for hissing or look for black soot.
How to Diagnose P0136
- 1Visually inspect the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor and its wiring harness for any obvious damage, fraying, or corrosion.
- 2Check for any exhaust leaks near the downstream oxygen sensor. Listen for hissing sounds or look for soot stains.
- 3Use an OBD-II scan tool to monitor the live data for the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor. Look for erratic voltage readings or no activity.
- 4Disconnect the sensor and test the resistance of the heater circuit (if applicable) and check for proper voltage supply to the sensor connector.
- 5If all other checks are inconclusive, replace the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor.
P0136 on Popular Vehicles
Toyota Camry
2007-2024P0136 is a very common code on these vehicles. The downstream O2 sensor is a frequent failure point due to age and heat cycles.
85% fixed by Oxygen Sensor (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
Honda Accord
2003-2024Similar to Toyota, Honda Accords frequently trigger P0136 due to the downstream O2 sensor failing. Access can sometimes be tight depending on the engine.
80% fixed by Oxygen Sensor (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
Ford F-150
2004-2024On Ford F-150s, especially older models, wiring harness damage due to road debris or corrosion is a slightly more common factor for P0136, in addition to sensor failure.
70% fixed by Oxygen Sensor (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0136 mean?
P0136 indicates that the oxygen sensor located after the catalytic converter on the first bank of cylinders (Bank 1 Sensor 2) is experiencing an electrical circuit malfunction, meaning the engine computer isn't receiving the expected signal from it.
Can I drive with P0136?
Yes, you can drive safely with a P0136 code. This code typically does not cause immediate drivability issues, but it should be addressed within 1-2 weeks to prevent further problems.
Will P0136 clear itself?
No, P0136 will not clear itself. The engine computer needs to see the correct signal from the oxygen sensor for a specific number of drive cycles before the code will clear. A faulty sensor or wiring will prevent this.
How do I fix P0136 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor and its wiring for damage. If no damage is found, replacing the oxygen sensor itself is the most common fix. You'll need an O2 sensor socket and a wrench.
How much does it cost to fix P0136?
A DIY fix for P0136 typically costs $50-$200 for a new oxygen sensor. Professional repair at a shop will cost $150-$500, including parts and labor.
P0136 keeps coming back - why?
If P0136 keeps returning, it's likely due to an underlying issue that wasn't fully resolved. This could be a persistent wiring problem, an exhaust leak that was missed, or a faulty catalytic converter that is causing the sensor to read incorrectly (though P0420 is more common for converter issues).
Will P0136 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0136 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on is an automatic failure, and the emissions system monitor for the O2 sensor will not be "ready."
What's the difference between P0136 and P0420?
P0136 specifically indicates an electrical circuit malfunction with the downstream oxygen sensor itself. P0420 indicates that the catalytic converter's efficiency is below threshold, meaning the converter is not cleaning the exhaust gases effectively. A faulty P0136 sensor can sometimes cause a P0420 if it's reporting incorrect data, but they are distinct issues.
P0136 on Toyota Camry?
On many Toyota Camry models, P0136 is a very common code and is almost always resolved by replacing the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor. These sensors are wear items and fail over time.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the live data for the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor to confirm its voltage readings are erratic or absent?
Good answer: Yes, the sensor voltage was stuck at 0.45V or showed no activity, confirming an open circuit or internal sensor failure.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$200
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$500
Save $100-$300 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
beginner
Time
1-2 hours
Beginner-friendly - Replacing an O2 sensor is a common DIY task, requiring basic tools and often accessible without lifting the vehicle.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0136 can lead to your vehicle failing emissions tests. While it doesn't directly damage the engine, if the sensor is reporting incorrectly, it can sometimes indirectly affect fuel trim, potentially leading to premature wear on your catalytic converter over a long period. A $50-$200 sensor replacement now prevents a failed emissions test and potential future issues.
While You're In There...
If you're removing exhaust components for better access or if an exhaust leak is found, replacing old gaskets prevents future leaks.
Applying anti-seize to the new O2 sensor threads prevents it from seizing in the exhaust pipe, making future removal easier.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool
- Oxygen Sensor Socket
- Ratchet and Extensions
- Wrench Set
- Jack and Jack Stands (if needed for access)
- Wire Brush (for cleaning threads)
- Multimeter (for advanced diagnostics)
P0136 is a very common emissions code. Most repairs are straightforward, involving a simple sensor replacement, and your vehicle will pass emissions afterward.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Visually inspect the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor and its wiring harness for any obvious damage, fraying, or corrosion. Also, check for any exhaust leaks near the sensor.
Step 2: If no obvious issues are found, use an OBD-II scan tool to monitor the live data for the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor. Look for a flat line or erratic voltage readings.
Step 3: If the sensor data is abnormal, the most likely fix is replacing the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor. You'll likely need a new O2 sensor.