P0164
Fix within 1-2 weeksThe oxygen sensor after the catalytic converter on Bank 2 is sending a voltage signal that is too high.
Code P0164 means your Bank 2 Sensor 3 O2 sensor circuit has high voltage. Common causes: Faulty O2 sensor (75%), wiring issues (20%). Drivability: Yes, safe to drive. Repair cost: $100-$250 DIY, $200-$450 professional.
Can I Drive With P0164?
Yes, safe to drive
No restrictions, but address the issue to prevent further problems.
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing Check Engine Light (indicating a severe misfire), loud exhaust noises, burning smell, or significant power loss.
Symptoms of P0164
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Slight decrease in fuel economy
- 3No noticeable change in engine performance
Common Causes of P0164
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The oxygen sensor itself is faulty and sending an incorrect, consistently high voltage signal to the engine computer.
75% of P0164 cases are fixed by replacing this part
A short to voltage in the sensor's wiring or a corroded connector can cause the engine computer to read an abnormally high voltage.
20% of P0164 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
The engine computer has an internal fault in the O2 sensor monitoring circuit, causing it to misinterpret the sensor's signal.
5% of P0164 cases are fixed by replacing the PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 3 O2 sensor and its wiring for any obvious damage, frayed wires, or loose connections. Look for signs of rodent damage.
- Ensure your exhaust system has no leaks near the O2 sensor, as this can sometimes affect readings (though less common for a 'high voltage' code).
How to Diagnose P0164
- 1Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 3 O2 sensor and its wiring for damage, corrosion, or shorts.
- 2Use an OBD-II scan tool to monitor the live data for Bank 2 Sensor 3 O2 sensor voltage. Look for a voltage that is stuck high (e.g., above 0.9V) or erratic.
- 3Check for proper voltage supply and ground at the O2 sensor connector using a multimeter.
- 4Test the O2 sensor's resistance and signal output according to manufacturer specifications.
- 5If all sensor and wiring checks pass, consider a PCM diagnostic, though this is rare.
P0164 on Popular Vehicles
Toyota Camry
2007-2024O2 sensor failures are common across all makes and models as they age. For the Camry, Bank 2 Sensor 3 is typically accessible and a direct replacement often resolves P0164.
70% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Honda Accord
2003-2024Honda Accords can experience O2 sensor failures due to age and mileage. Always check the wiring harness for rodent damage or corrosion, which can be a factor for P0164.
65% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Ford F-150
2004-2024On F-150s, especially those used for heavy towing or off-roading, exhaust system components and O2 sensor wiring can be more susceptible to damage. Bank 2 is the passenger side. Verify the sensor is properly seated and wiring is intact.
70% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0164 mean?
P0164 indicates that the oxygen sensor located after the catalytic converter on Bank 2 of your engine is reporting a voltage signal that is consistently too high. This sensor monitors the efficiency of your catalytic converter.
Can I drive with P0164?
Yes, you can drive safely with a P0164 code. This code typically does not cause immediate drivability issues or leave you stranded. However, it's important to address it within a week or two to prevent potential long-term problems.
Will P0164 clear itself?
No, P0164 will not clear itself. The engine computer stores this code because it detects a persistent issue with the O2 sensor circuit. You will need to diagnose and fix the underlying problem, then clear the code with a scan tool.
How do I fix P0164 myself?
Start by visually inspecting the Bank 2 Sensor 3 O2 sensor and its wiring for any obvious damage. If the wiring looks good, the most common fix is replacing the O2 sensor itself. You'll need an O2 sensor socket and a wrench.
How much does it cost to fix P0164?
A DIY fix for P0164 typically costs $100-$250 for a new O2 sensor. If you take it to a professional shop, expect to pay $200-$450, which includes parts and labor.
P0164 keeps coming back - why?
If P0164 keeps returning, it usually means the initial repair didn't address the root cause. This could be due to a faulty replacement O2 sensor, a persistent wiring issue that wasn't fully resolved, or a rare problem with the engine computer itself.
Will P0164 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0164 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. A Check Engine Light being on, regardless of the code, is an automatic failure in most states that require these inspections.
What's the difference between P0164 and P0161?
P0164 indicates a 'Circuit High Voltage' issue with the Bank 2 Sensor 3 O2 sensor, meaning the signal itself is too high. P0161 indicates a 'Heater Circuit Malfunction' for the same sensor, meaning the sensor's internal heater element is not working correctly.
P0164 on Ford F-150?
On a Ford F-150, P0164 most commonly points to a faulty Bank 2 Sensor 3 O2 sensor. This sensor is located after the catalytic converter on the passenger side of the engine. Wiring issues are also a possibility, especially in older trucks exposed to harsh conditions.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you check the live data for the Bank 2 Sensor 3 O2 sensor voltage, and what were the readings?
Good answer: Yes, I monitored the live data. The Bank 2 Sensor 3 voltage was stuck at 1.2V, which is abnormally high, confirming a circuit high voltage condition.
Did you inspect the wiring harness and connector for Bank 2 Sensor 3 for any shorts or corrosion?
Good answer: Absolutely. I thoroughly checked the wiring from the sensor to the PCM connector for any signs of damage, chafing, or corrosion, and found no issues. I also performed continuity and voltage drop tests.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$100-$250
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$200-$450
Save $100-$200 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-2 hours
Intermediate - requires an OBD-II scan tool for diagnosis and specific tools like an O2 sensor socket for replacement.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0164 can lead to reduced fuel economy. If the underlying issue is a rich running condition (which the high voltage might indicate), it can eventually damage your catalytic converter, turning a $100-$250 O2 sensor job into a $1,000-$2,500 converter replacement.
While You're In There...
If you need to remove exhaust components to access the O2 sensor, replacing old gaskets prevents exhaust leaks and ensures a proper seal.
Applying anti-seize to the threads of the new O2 sensor prevents it from seizing in the exhaust pipe, making future removal easier.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool
- O2 Sensor Socket
- Ratchet and Extensions
- Multimeter
- Wire Strippers/Crimpers (if wiring repair is needed)
- Anti-seize compound
P0164 is a common O2 sensor code. Most repairs involve a straightforward sensor replacement, and your vehicle will be back to normal quickly.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 3 O2 sensor and its wiring for any damage, corrosion, or signs of a short to power.
Step 2: Use an OBD-II scan tool to monitor the live data for the Bank 2 Sensor 3 O2 sensor voltage. If it's stuck high (e.g., above 0.9V) or erratic, the sensor is likely faulty.
Step 3: If the sensor appears faulty, you'll likely need a new Bank 2 Sensor 3 O2 sensor. Consider an O2 sensor socket for easier removal and installation.