P0167
Fix within 1-2 weeksYour engine computer detected a problem with the heater circuit for the oxygen sensor located after the catalytic converter on Bank 2. This sensor helps monitor the exhaust gases.
Code P0167 means your Bank 2 Sensor 3 heater circuit has a problem. Common causes: Faulty O2 sensor (80%), wiring issues (15%). Drivability: Yes, safe to drive. Repair cost: $100-$250 DIY, $200-$500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0167?
Yes, safe to drive
No restrictions
Stop driving immediately if: No need to stop driving unless other symptoms like severe engine performance issues or loud exhaust noises develop.
Symptoms of P0167
- 1Check Engine Light is on
- 2Slightly reduced fuel economy
- 3Failed emissions test
Common Causes of P0167
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The heating element inside the oxygen sensor has failed, preventing it from reaching operating temperature quickly.
80% of P0167 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or open/shorted wires in the harness prevent power from reaching the O2 sensor heater.
15% of P0167 cases are fixed by repairing the wiring
A blown fuse in the O2 sensor heater circuit cuts off power to the sensor.
4% of P0167 cases are fixed by replacing a fuse
The engine computer itself has an internal fault preventing it from controlling the O2 sensor heater circuit.
1% of P0167 cases are fixed by replacing the ECM/PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Visually inspect the O2 sensor and its wiring for any obvious damage, fraying, or corrosion.
- Check the fuse box for any blown fuses that supply power to the O2 sensor heater circuits.
How to Diagnose P0167
- 1Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 3 and its wiring for any obvious damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 2Check the fuse box for any blown fuses related to the O2 sensor heater circuits (consult your vehicle's manual).
- 3Using a multimeter, test the resistance of the heater circuit terminals on the O2 sensor itself (unplugged).
- 4With the sensor unplugged, test for voltage at the wiring harness connector leading to the O2 sensor heater circuit.
- 5If wiring and sensor test good, a professional scan tool can monitor O2 sensor heater operation and PCM commands.
P0167 on Popular Vehicles
Toyota Camry
2007-2024For V6 Camry models, Bank 2 is typically the rear bank against the firewall. Sensor 3 would be the downstream sensor after the catalytic converter on that bank. Access can be tight, but the repair is similar to other O2 sensor replacements.
80% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Honda Accord
2003-2024V6 Accord models will have a Bank 2. Sensor 3, if present, is usually located further downstream in the exhaust system. Check your specific model's exhaust diagram to confirm the exact location and number of sensors.
80% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor
Ford F-150
2004-2024On V8 F-150s, Bank 2 is the passenger side. Sensor 3 is the downstream O2 sensor after the catalytic converter on that side. These sensors are exposed to road debris, so wiring damage is a slightly higher possibility.
75% fixed by replacing the O2 sensor, 15% by wiring repair
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0167 mean?
P0167 indicates a malfunction in the heater circuit of the oxygen sensor located on Bank 2, Sensor 3. This sensor is typically found after the catalytic converter on the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder number one.
Can I drive with P0167?
Yes, you can drive safely with a P0167 code. This code primarily affects emissions and fuel efficiency, not immediate engine performance or safety. However, you should fix it within 1-2 weeks to avoid failing emissions tests and to restore optimal fuel economy.
Will P0167 clear itself?
No, P0167 will not clear itself. The engine computer detects a continuous fault in the O2 sensor heater circuit. The Check Engine Light will remain on until the underlying issue is repaired and the code is cleared, either by driving through several cycles after repair or by using a scan tool.
How do I fix P0167 myself?
Start by inspecting the O2 sensor wiring and checking for a blown fuse. If those are good, the most common fix is replacing the Bank 2 Sensor 3 oxygen sensor. You will need an O2 sensor socket and a wrench, and possibly a multimeter to test the circuit.
How much does it cost to fix P0167?
A DIY fix for P0167, primarily replacing the O2 sensor, costs $100-$250 for the part. Professional repair at a shop typically costs $200-$500, including parts and labor.
P0167 keeps coming back - why?
If P0167 keeps returning, it indicates the initial repair did not address the root cause. Common reasons include a faulty new O2 sensor, an undiagnosed wiring issue (corrosion, short, or open circuit), or a rare problem with the engine computer itself.
Will P0167 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0167 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. The Check Engine Light being on, regardless of the code, is an automatic failure in most jurisdictions. Additionally, a non-functional O2 sensor heater means the emissions system is not operating as designed.
What's the difference between P0167 and P0161?
P0167 specifically refers to a heater circuit malfunction for Bank 2 Sensor 3. P0161 refers to a heater circuit malfunction for Bank 2 Sensor 2. Both are downstream oxygen sensors on Bank 2, but they are distinct sensors in the exhaust system.
P0167 on Ford F-150?
On a Ford F-150, P0167 indicates an issue with the heater circuit for the oxygen sensor located after the catalytic converter on the passenger side (Bank 2). Access to this sensor can vary depending on the engine size and cab configuration, but it's typically a straightforward replacement once located.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you test the resistance of the O2 sensor heater circuit?
Good answer: Yes, I measured the resistance and it was outside the manufacturer's specifications, indicating an internal heater failure in the sensor.
What voltage did you find at the O2 sensor heater circuit connector?
Good answer: I checked the connector with the ignition on, and I found a good 12-volt supply, which means the wiring and fuse are good, pointing to the sensor itself.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$100-$250
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$200-$500
Save $100-$250 by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-2 hours
Intermediate - requires basic hand tools, an O2 sensor socket, and a multimeter for proper diagnosis. Locating Bank 2 Sensor 3 can sometimes be challenging.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0167 means your vehicle will fail any required emissions tests. You will also experience slightly reduced fuel economy because the engine runs in open loop longer, not optimizing fuel delivery based on exhaust gas readings. This can cost you more at the pump over time.
While You're In There...
If you need to remove exhaust components for better access to the O2 sensor, replacing old gaskets prevents exhaust leaks and ensures a tight seal.
Applying anti-seize to the threads of the new O2 sensor makes future removal much easier and prevents it from seizing in the exhaust pipe.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II scan tool
- Multimeter
- O2 sensor socket
- Ratchet and extensions
- Wire cutters/strippers (if wiring repair is needed)
P0167 is a common emissions code. Most repairs involve replacing the oxygen sensor, which is a straightforward job for an intermediate DIYer and will get your vehicle running efficiently again.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Perform a thorough visual inspection of the Bank 2 Sensor 3 and its wiring harness. Look for cuts, burns, corrosion, or loose connectors.
Step 2: Check the vehicle's fuse box for any blown fuses related to the O2 sensor heater circuit. Replace any blown fuses.
Step 3: If the fuse and wiring appear good, use a multimeter to test the resistance of the heater circuit on the O2 sensor itself. If it's outside specifications, replace the Bank 2 Sensor 3 oxygen sensor.