Hey Guys,

SES light came on, then went off, then came back on again. Ran the code and it came back P0161 - Bank2/Sen2 - Heater Circuit. Tried doing a post search but not much info on this particular code. Cleared the code two days ago and has not come back...but just want to make sure this isn't a precursor to a bigger problem.

Checked the sensors and they are clean (ish) not sure when, if ever, they were replaced. Couple of the posts mentioned an exhaust leak or vacuum leak as the culprit. Is that possible or does it just mean my sensor is fried?

Thanks

 

You are getting close to replacement time for the 02's, heater circuit is one of those codes that is usually not mileage related.
Shouldn't be bothering your performance, if it were mine I would keep an eye on a sale thru Amazon.com for a good set of 4 for cheap.

 

The Bosch universals work fine at 30 bucks a pop. There are even 10 dollar universals, but for 30 bucks I stick with Bosch.

 

it is alright to use the universals? I thought I read that only a bosch direct replacement or Land Rover worked without problems

 

You never use generic universal 02's if you expect the best performance out of your truck.

 

Mike,
they have to be land rover oem or do you have a bosch number by chance?
what should i plan to pay for 4 of them?

 

Thanks Mike.

I replaced my front O2's about 10K ago with the BOSCH ones. So will keep my eye out for some good prices on the rears. Napa has them for about $60 a piece (BSH 15630). Code hasn't come back yet so hoping it was just a glitch because of the rain or something.

 

Hey Mike, why wouldn't you use a Bosch universal? Its the same sensor sans an orig. plug for $30 less, $100 less if your planning on using OEM. The weather pack is going to be all messed up on your orig harness plugs anyway, mayswell install the nice new german sealed plugs...
I would say a leaky old plug 1/2 full of coolant/oil/water bleeding power from the heater pins to the sensor pins is worse than a universal oxygen sensor.

 

There are some vehicles where a universal is not a good idea. It's the ones what have more that just a different plug on them. Check the specs, it's that easy.

As to reasons not to use a universal even when it's the same specs - most people screw up the wiring. It's not a typical connection, because the wires are not copper. Follow the instructions, clean everything, and do it slow and correct, check your work and you'll be fine.

And when I say "check your work", remember - NO OHM METERS ON O2 SENSORS, EVER (except for the heater element, or a high impedance ohm meter when you know what you are doing).

 

Daryl, why can't you use an ohm meter on an oxygen sensor. Does it ruin the meter or the oxygen sensor.