P0153
Fix within 1-2 weeksThe oxygen sensor on Bank 2, Sensor 1 is responding too slowly to changes in the exhaust gas.
Code P0153 means your Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor is responding too slowly. Common causes: Faulty O2 sensor (80%), exhaust leak (10%), wiring issues (7%). Drivability: Yes, safe to drive. Repair cost: $50-$150 DIY, $150-$450 professional.
Can I Drive With P0153?
Yes, safe to drive
No restrictions, but fix within 1-2 weeks to prevent further damage and improve fuel economy.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light (indicates active misfire), strong rotten egg smell from exhaust, significant power loss.
Symptoms of P0153
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Reduced fuel economy
- 3Engine may run rough or hesitate slightly
- 4Increased exhaust emissions
Common Causes of P0153
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The O2 sensor itself is worn out, contaminated, or has an internal fault causing it to react sluggishly to exhaust gas changes.
80% of P0153 cases are fixed by replacing this part
An exhaust leak near the Bank 2 Sensor 1 can introduce outside air, causing the sensor to read incorrectly and respond slowly.
10% of P0153 cases are fixed by repairing an exhaust leak
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring and connectors to the O2 sensor can disrupt its signal and cause slow response.
7% of P0153 cases are fixed by repairing wiring
Oil, coolant, or fuel additives can foul the sensor tip, reducing its ability to accurately read exhaust gases.
3% of P0153 cases are fixed by addressing sensor contamination
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor and its electrical connector for any obvious damage, frayed wires, or corrosion.
- Listen for any hissing or puffing sounds around the exhaust manifold and catalytic converter, indicating an exhaust leak.
How to Diagnose P0153
- 1Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 1 O2 sensor and its wiring for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 2Check for any exhaust leaks near the Bank 2 Sensor 1 O2 sensor using a smoke machine or by listening for hissing sounds.
- 3Use an OBD-II scan tool to monitor live data for Bank 2 Sensor 1, specifically looking at its voltage fluctuations and response time.
- 4Test the O2 sensor's heater circuit for proper resistance and voltage using a multimeter.
- 5Test the O2 sensor's signal circuit for proper voltage output and responsiveness using a multimeter or oscilloscope.
P0153 on Popular Vehicles
Toyota Camry
2007-2024O2 sensor failures are common on higher mileage Toyota Camrys. Bank 2 Sensor 1 is typically accessible, but can be seized.
85% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Honda Accord
2003-2024Honda Accords often experience O2 sensor degradation over time. Check for exhaust manifold cracks or gasket leaks, which can mimic a slow O2 sensor.
80% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Ford F-150
2004-2024On Ford F-150s, especially with the V8 engines, Bank 2 Sensor 1 O2 sensor failure is a frequent cause. Exhaust manifold leaks are also common and must be ruled out.
75% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Chevrolet Silverado
2007-2024Silverados with V8 engines are prone to O2 sensor issues as they age. Ensure wiring harnesses are not chafed or damaged due to engine vibration.
80% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0153 mean?
P0153 indicates that the upstream oxygen sensor on Bank 2 of your engine is reacting too slowly to changes in the exhaust gas composition. Bank 2 is the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder #1.
Can I drive with P0153?
Yes, you can drive safely with P0153. The vehicle will likely experience reduced fuel economy and increased emissions. Fix this within 1-2 weeks to prevent further issues.
Will P0153 clear itself?
No, P0153 will not clear itself. The slow response from the O2 sensor is a persistent issue that requires diagnosis and repair. The Check Engine Light will remain on until the underlying problem is fixed.
How do I fix P0153 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 these are clear, replacing the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor is the most common fix. You will need an O2 sensor socket and a wrench.
How much does it cost to fix P0153?
The cost to fix P0153 ranges from $50-$150 for parts if you do it yourself. A professional repair shop will charge $150-$450, which includes parts and labor.
P0153 keeps coming back - why?
P0153 keeps coming back because the root cause was not fully addressed. This happens if you replaced the O2 sensor but an exhaust leak is still present, or if there is a hidden wiring issue. A thorough diagnosis is necessary to find the actual problem.
Will P0153 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0153 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on automatically fails the test, and the slow O2 sensor response directly impacts the vehicle's emissions control system.
What's the difference between P0153 and P0133?
P0153 refers to a slow response from the upstream oxygen sensor on Bank 2 (the side of the engine without cylinder #1). P0133 refers to the same slow response issue, but for the upstream oxygen sensor on Bank 1 (the side of the engine with cylinder #1).
P0153 on Ford F-150?
On Ford F-150s, P0153 is commonly caused by a failing Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor, especially on higher mileage trucks. Exhaust leaks are also a known issue on these vehicles, which can trigger this code. Always check for leaks first.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check for exhaust leaks near the Bank 2 Sensor 1 O2 sensor?
Good answer: Yes, I performed a visual inspection and a smoke test around the sensor and found no leaks.
What were the live data readings for Bank 2 Sensor 1's voltage fluctuations?
Good answer: The sensor's voltage was fluctuating very slowly, taking more than 400 milliseconds to switch from rich to lean, indicating a slow response.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$150
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$450
Save $100-$300 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-2 hours
Intermediate - requires specific tools like an O2 sensor socket and an OBD-II scan tool to confirm the diagnosis, but the physical replacement is straightforward.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0153 leads to continued poor fuel economy and increased emissions. A slow O2 sensor can cause the engine to run rich, sending unburned fuel to your catalytic converter. This can overheat and destroy the converter, turning a $50-$150 O2 sensor job into a $800-$2,500 catalytic converter replacement.
While You're In There...
If you find an exhaust leak, replacing the O2 sensor and the associated exhaust gaskets at the same time prevents repeat labor and ensures a proper seal.
Applying anti-seize to the threads of the new O2 sensor makes future removal much easier and prevents the sensor from seizing in the exhaust pipe.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool
- O2 Sensor Socket
- Ratchet and Extension
- Wrench Set
- Multimeter (for advanced diagnostics)
- Anti-seize compound
P0153 is a common code, and in most cases, replacing the oxygen sensor resolves the issue. Your engine will run more efficiently and your fuel economy will improve after the repair.
- Family-owned since 1957
- 990,000+ happy customers
- Fast nationwide shipping
- Easy returns
Your Next Steps
Step 1: Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 1 O2 sensor and its wiring for any damage or loose connections. Check for 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 Bank 2 Sensor 1. Look for slow voltage fluctuations compared to other O2 sensors.
Step 3: If the sensor is confirmed to be slow, replace the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor. You will likely need an O2 sensor socket for removal and installation.