P0152
Fix within 1-2 weeksThe oxygen sensor on Bank 2, Sensor 1 is reporting a consistently high voltage, indicating a rich fuel condition or a fault in the sensor circuit itself. Bank 2 is the side of the engine without cylinder #1, and Sensor 1 is the upstream sensor before the catalytic converter.
Code P0152 means your Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor is reporting a high voltage. Common causes: Failed O2 sensor (70%), wiring issue (20%), exhaust leak (5%). Drivability: Yes, safe to drive, but fix within 1-2 weeks. Repair cost: $50-$200 DIY, $150-$500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0152?
Yes, safe to drive
No restrictions, but fix within 1-2 weeks to prevent further issues and save fuel.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light (indicates severe misfire, though not typical for P0152), strong rotten egg smell from exhaust, significant power loss, or engine running very rough.
Symptoms of P0152
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Reduced fuel economy
- 3Engine may run rich, leading to increased emissions
- 4Rough idle or hesitation (less common, but possible if fuel trim is severely affected)
- 5Rotten egg smell from exhaust (due to rich condition)
Common Causes of P0152
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The sensor itself has failed internally, causing it to send a continuously high voltage signal to the engine computer, regardless of the actual exhaust oxygen content.
70% of P0152 cases are fixed by replacing this part
The wiring leading to the O2 sensor is damaged or shorted to a power source, causing the sensor signal wire to receive a high voltage reading.
20% of P0152 cases are fixed by repairing the wiring
An exhaust leak upstream of the O2 sensor can draw in ambient air, confusing the sensor and causing it to report a rich condition (high voltage) as it tries to compensate for the perceived lean condition.
5% of P0152 cases are fixed by repairing an exhaust leak
A rare internal fault within the engine computer can cause it to misinterpret or incorrectly report the O2 sensor voltage.
5% of P0152 cases are fixed by replacing or reprogramming the ECM/PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor and its wiring for any obvious damage, fraying, or signs of rodent chewing.
- Listen for any exhaust leaks near the sensor. A small leak can sometimes cause unusual sensor readings.
How to Diagnose P0152
- 1Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor and its wiring harness for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion.
- 2Check for any exhaust leaks near the Bank 2 Sensor 1 location. Listen for hissing sounds or look for black soot.
- 3Using an OBD-II scan tool, monitor the live data for Bank 2 Sensor 1 voltage. It should fluctuate rapidly between 0.1V and 0.9V. If it's stuck consistently high (e.g., above 0.9V), the sensor or circuit is faulty.
- 4Disconnect the O2 sensor and use a multimeter to check for continuity and resistance in the sensor's heater circuit. Also, check for any short to voltage on the signal wire coming from the PCM.
- 5If all wiring checks out, and the sensor voltage is still high, replace the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor.
P0152 on Popular Vehicles
Toyota Camry
2007-2024On V6 Camry models, P0152 is frequently due to a failing upstream O2 sensor. Access can be tight, but the sensor itself is the primary culprit.
75% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Honda Accord
2003-2024For V6 Accord engines, the Bank 2 Sensor 1 O2 sensor is a common wear item. Ensure to check for any exhaust leaks around the manifold, as these can sometimes trigger the code.
70% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Ford F-150
2004-2024P0152 on Ford F-150s (V6 or V8) is almost always a direct O2 sensor failure. The sensors are exposed to harsh conditions and have a finite lifespan.
80% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Chevrolet Silverado
2007-2024Silverado trucks with V8 engines often see P0152 due to a failed upstream O2 sensor. Wiring integrity should be checked, especially in areas exposed to road debris.
70% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0152 mean?
P0152 indicates that the upstream oxygen sensor on Bank 2 (the side of the engine without cylinder #1) is sending a consistently high voltage signal to the engine computer. This usually means the sensor is faulty or the engine is running very rich.
Can I drive with P0152?
Yes, you can drive with P0152, but you should fix it within 1-2 weeks. Driving with this code will reduce your fuel economy and increase emissions. Prolonged driving with a rich condition can also damage your catalytic converter.
Will P0152 clear itself?
No, P0152 will not clear itself. The engine computer detects a persistent fault with the O2 sensor circuit. The code will remain until the underlying issue is diagnosed and repaired, and the fault codes are cleared, either manually with a scan tool or after several drive cycles once the repair is complete.
How do I fix P0152 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the Bank 2 Sensor 1 O2 sensor and its wiring for damage. Check for exhaust leaks near the sensor. If no obvious issues are found, use a scan tool to confirm the sensor's voltage reading. If it's stuck high, replacing the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor is the most common fix.
How much does it cost to fix P0152?
A DIY fix for P0152 typically costs $50-$200 for a new oxygen sensor. Professional repair at a shop will cost $150-$500, which includes parts and labor.
P0152 keeps coming back - why?
If P0152 keeps returning, it means the root cause was not fully addressed. This often happens if the O2 sensor was replaced, but a wiring issue (short to voltage) or an exhaust leak was overlooked. A rare possibility is a faulty engine computer.
Will P0152 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0152 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 code itself indicates an issue with the emissions control system.
What's the difference between P0152 and P0132?
P0152 indicates a high voltage condition for the upstream oxygen sensor on Bank 2 (the side of the engine without cylinder #1). P0132 indicates the same high voltage condition, but for the upstream oxygen sensor on Bank 1 (the side of the engine with cylinder #1). They point to the same type of fault, just on different banks of a V-style engine.
P0152 on Ford F-150 - what's common?
On Ford F-150s, P0152 is most commonly caused by a failed Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor. The sensor can degrade over time due to heat and exhaust contaminants. Wiring issues are less common but should still be checked, especially on older models.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the live data for Bank 2 Sensor 1 voltage, and what were the readings?
Good answer: Yes, the sensor was stuck at 1.2 volts, indicating a high voltage condition. We also checked the wiring for any shorts to power and found none.
Have you inspected the exhaust system near Bank 2 Sensor 1 for any leaks?
Good answer: Yes, we performed a smoke test and visual inspection and confirmed there are no exhaust leaks that could be affecting the sensor's reading.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$200
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$500
Save $100-$300 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-2 hours
Intermediate - Requires an OBD-II scan tool to properly diagnose and confirm the sensor's operation, and an O2 sensor socket for removal. Access can be challenging depending on the vehicle.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0152 means your engine runs rich, which significantly reduces your fuel economy. More critically, a rich condition sends unburned fuel into your catalytic converter, causing it to overheat and fail prematurely. A $100 O2 sensor replacement now prevents a $1,200-$2,500 catalytic converter replacement later.
While You're In There...
If you need to remove exhaust components to access the sensor, replacing old gaskets prevents future leaks and ensures a tight seal.
Applying anti-seize to the new O2 sensor threads prevents it from seizing in the exhaust pipe, making future removal much easier.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool
- Oxygen Sensor Socket
- Ratchet and Extensions
- Multimeter
- Anti-seize Compound
- Wire Brush (for exhaust threads)
P0152 is a common code related to your vehicle's emissions system. Most repairs involve replacing a single oxygen sensor, which is a straightforward job that will restore your fuel economy and prevent more expensive repairs down the road.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Check for obvious issues. Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 1 O2 sensor and its wiring for any damage or corrosion. Also, listen carefully for any exhaust leaks near the sensor.
Step 2: If no visual issues or leaks are found, use an OBD-II scan tool to monitor the live data for Bank 2 Sensor 1 voltage. If it's consistently high (e.g., above 0.9V) and doesn't fluctuate, the sensor or its circuit is faulty.
Step 3: Parts you'll likely need: A new Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor. Consider an O2 sensor socket for easier removal and installation.