Modern car engines with emissions control systems rely on sensors to work well and control how much pollution they put out. If these sensors malfunction and provide incorrect data, you may notice issues such as reduced MPGs, driving difficulties, emissions failure, and other issues. The P0130 error code helps us identify such issues.
P0130 is a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that relates to “O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1, Sensor 1),” suggesting a problem with the air-to-fuel ratio sensor (aka the O2 or oxygen sensor). Specifically, with the voltage being lower than the expected level or the sensor remaining in the lean-biased mode for an extended period.
This article will delve into the causes and symptoms of a bad O2 sensor and P0130 (bank 1 sensor 1 oxygen sensor), as well as the steps you can take to diagnose and fix the problem.
- What Does P0130 Mean?
- Location Of O2 Sensors
- Why Do O2 Sensors Fail?
- Cost Of An O2 Sensor
- Symptoms Of A Bad O2 Sensor
- O2 Sensor Troubleshooting
- How To Fix It
- Last Words
- FAQ’s
P0130 Code
A P0130 code, also known as a Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S sensor), stands for “O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1, Sensor 1)”. The code signifies that the powertrain control module (PCM) has detected an issue in the voltage input.
This is transmitted from the oxygen sensor located before the catalytic converter on the first engine bank. This bank includes the cylinder designated as number one, and the sensor in question is typically referred to as the upstream O2 sensor. The engine control module (ECM) is not detecting proper activity from the O2 sensor.
This resulted in changes to the engine management strategies and potentially impacted your vehicle’s fuel economy. A check engine warning light may also be activated. This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a common problem with cars that feature OBD-II onboard diagnostics standards.
The repair process may vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. The O2 sensor measures the oxygen levels in the exhaust and generates a voltage ranging from 0.1 to 0.9 volts. A voltage of 0.1 reflects a lean mixture, while a reading of 0.9 indicates a rich mixture.
What Is An Oxygen Sensor
An oxygen sensor plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of your vehicle. It is responsible for detecting the amount of oxygen present in the exhaust gas and relaying that information to the engine control unit (ECU).
Based on this data, the ECU manages the air-fuel ratio to ensure that your engine is running efficiently and producing minimal emissions. However, when an oxygen sensor malfunctions, it can have serious consequences for the performance and efficiency of your vehicle.
Not only can it lead to decreased fuel economy, but it can also cause your vehicle to emit higher levels of harmful pollutants (to learn more, check out our guide on does my car have a catalytic converter).
Location Of O2 Sensor
If an oxygen sensor fails, you probably won’t know until a check engine light appears. Otherwise, you may notice a decline in performance and fuel economy. The number of oxygen sensors in a car varies depending on the engine configuration.
Transverse-mounted four-cylinder engines have one sensor located upstream, and one downstream. On the other hand, inline four-cylinder, cars with an inline-6 engine, and V6 engines each have an additional sensor on each engine bank, making three sensors total.
Also, for V6 and V8 engines that are transversely mounted, there are four sensors in total: one on each bank, one downstream, and one located at the back. No matter what kind of car you drive, bank 1 sensor 1 is between the engine and the catalytic converter.
Furthermore, this will be the only sensor upstream on engines that run in a line. It is crucial to pinpoint the malfunctioning sensor, as just one faulty oxygen sensor can seriously hamper your vehicle’s performance.
For more insight into O2 sensor locations, check out our explainer on bank 1 sensor 1 and bank 1 sensor 2. We also answered whether bank 2 sensor 1 is an upstream or downstream sensor. As well as, the location of bank 2 sensor 1 on a Ford F150.
O2 Sensor Codes
The P0130 code pertains to the heated oxygen sensor bank 1, sensor 1. Your car might exhibit many other O2 sensor-related OBD error codes if the sensor fails. Some of the codes that you might notice include (among many others):
Why Do O2 Sensors Fail
There are a number of reasons why an oxygen sensor might fail. Some of the most common reasons include the following:
1. Age
Oxygen sensors have a limited lifespan and will eventually wear out over time. Older vehicles have O2 sensors that will typically last 30,000–50,000 miles, or 3–5 years. Newer vehicles employ sensors with an additional heated element and these new sensors are more likely to last to 100,000 or 7–10 years
2. Contamination
Oxygen sensors can become contaminated with oil, fuel, or other contaminants, which can interfere with their ability to accurately measure oxygen levels in the exhaust.
3. Physical Damage
Oxygen sensors are often exposed to high temperatures and harsh conditions, which can cause physical damage over time. They can also be damaged by impact from rocks or other debris.
4. Electrical Issues
Oxygen sensors rely on an electrical current to function. So, if there are problems with the wiring or connections, the sensor might not work right.
5. Installation Mistake
If an oxygen sensor is not properly installed, it may not work properly.
Cost Of An Oxygen Sensor
Use RepairPal’s Fair Price Estimator to get a more accurate price quote based on the brand, make, and location of your car. The listed price is an average for all vehicles and does not include taxes, fees, or the specific make and model of your vehicle. There may also be maintenance or repairs that need to be done.
Oxygen sensor bank 1 sensor 1 price for a replacement can range from under $100 to over $300, depending on the model. However, this does not take into account the labor costs, which can vary significantly based on the location of the sensor in your vehicle.
This means that the total cost to replace an oxygen (O2) sensor will depend a lot on the make and model of your car. Properly functioning oxygen sensors will make your car’s computer tell if your exhaust has the right amount of air and fuel at any given time.
This keeps the engine from running too rich or too lean and putting out too many pollutants. It is advisable to replace oxygen sensors regularly, whenever they fail, to ensure optimal fuel efficiency.
Symptoms Of A Bad O2 Sensor
The P0130 error will trigger the illumination of the Check Engine light and is likely to have an effect on:
- The driving performance of the engine and how it operates.
- A slowdown could happen.
- Exhaust smoke could take on a rainbow of hues.
- Fuel efficiency will drop as a result.
- You will also notice the release of a foul odor.
When Should O2 Sensor Be Replaced
If you’ve done any research, you may have come across instructions that an O2 sensor needs to be cleaned periodically. Most of the time, these guides have a lot of information about how to take the sensor off safely, clean it, and then put it back on.
Hence, an oxygen sensor replacement should be performed within three months to prevent the car from getting worse. Every car made after 1996 is required to have at least one oxygen sensor upstream and downstream of each catalytic converter.
Is It Possible To Clean An Oxygen Sensor
In a nutshell, yes. However, this is not encouraged because the malfunctioning part should be replaced. It’s more hassle to clean an oxygen sensor than it’s worth, so once you’ve located it and made sure it’s functioning properly, you might as well just replace it for future peace of mind
Oxygen sensors don’t need to be replaced on a set schedule like some other vehicle maintenance items. They are only replaced when they fail. The EPA states that replacing a faulty oxygen sensor can improve fuel economy by up to 40%.
If you notice that your car is using more gas or if it fails an emissions test, it could be because the oxygen sensor is broken. There is no specific warning light for a failing oxygen sensor, so you should be on the lookout for other indicators such as the check engine light and increased fuel consumption.
O2 Sensor Troubleshooting
Consider the following steps to determine the source of any O2 sensor faults:
- #1. Utilizing a diagnostic tool, read any error codes that may have been generated. Remember that dealing with problems involving O2 sensors frequently results in multiple fault codes.
- #2. Check the resistance of the heater that is contained within the lambda sensor. In most cases, it will be quite low. Lambda sensors have an internal heater.
- #3. Check the power supply that is going to the heater. Most of the time, the wires will all be the same color.
- #4. Check the electrical connector to see if it’s been damaged or if it’s dirty.
- #5. It is important to check for leaks in the exhaust manifold and fuel injectors, as well as the condition of the ignition components. This is because any of these things could affect how well the sensor works.
- #6. Â Verify that the O2 sensor is giving accurate readings by using an emission analyzer that measures four or five gases to check the O2 concentration.
- #7. Check the signal with an oscilloscope while the engine is both idle and at approximately 2,500 revolutions per minute.
- #8. If the sensor wiring is difficult to access, use live data to check whether or not there is a signal.
- #9: Check the probe element’s protective tube carefully for any signs of damage or contamination.
Possible Causes Of The P0130 Code
There are a few potential reasons for the P0130 sensor error:
- #1. Connections in the air or fuel systems that are too loose.
- #2. Damage to the wiring that connects the sensors to the ECM.
- #3. Evaporative emissions (EVAP) seep into the environment.
- #4. The regulator for the fuel pressure may be leaking.
- #5. HO2S sensors are giving readings that are outside of the range.
- #6. The plug that was attached to the sensor was unplugged.
- #7. It’s possible that the sensor connector has corroded.
- #8. A fuel system that supplies an inadequate amount of fuel to the engine (i.e., a fuel pump or other component).
- #9. Vacuum air leaks at the intake.
- #10. There is a problem with the ECM.
- #11. A reading from the mass air flow (MAF) sensor that is outside of its range.
- #12. The Manifold Absolute Pressure sensor’s (MAP) reading is outside of acceptable parameters.
How Serious Is The P0130 Code
When it comes to a P0130 code, it’s difficult to determine its level of severity without more information. In many cases, it’s a minor issue that can wait to be fixed, but it’s possible for it to be a more significant problem depending on the specific cause. However, it will:
- #1. You run the risk of causing damage to your catalytic converters, which is a costly repair.
- #2. Influence your car’s fuel economy.
- #3. Halt your ability to pass the emissions test.
- #4. Cause fuel instability, which could lead to engine damage.
It is highly advisable to get a professional diagnosis immediately. If the issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, it is not a major problem because the repair cost will not be significant
How To Fix P0130 Error
Without a scan tool, it can be hard to figure out what’s wrong with a car. Although it may be tempting to try some backyard fixes, the reality is that replacing parts without proper diagnosis is just a shot in the dark.
P0130 Diagnostics #1: Check The Wiring And Connectors
The first step is to check the wiring and connectors for the sensor. Make sure that they are securely connected and that there are no signs of damage, such as frayed wires or corroded connectors. If the wiring or connectors are broken, they will need to be fixed or replaced before you can move on.
P0130 Diagnostics #2: Inspect The Sensor Itself
The sensor may be dirty or damaged, which can cause it to malfunction. To clean the sensor, you will need to remove it from the exhaust system and clean it with a wire brush or a specialized cleaning solution. If the sensor is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
P0130 Diagnostics #3: Examine The Exhaust System
If the exhaust system is clogged or damaged, it can affect the sensor’s performance. Inspect the exhaust system for any signs of damage, such as holes, leaks, or clogs.
One way to check for an exhaust leak is to park your vehicle in a quiet area and start it up. Cover the tailpipe with a flat object and listen for a hissing exhaust leak sound. If you hear one, it could indicate a leak. Hence, a problematic exhaust system will need to be repaired or replaced before proceeding.
P0130 Diagnostics #4: Inspect The Air Intake System
If the air filter is dirty, it can cause the sensor to malfunction. Replace the air filter if it is dirty or clogged.
P0130 Diagnostics #5: Inspection Of The ECM Or PCM
Check the engine control module (ECM) or powertrain control module (PCM) for any stored codes or issues. Sometimes, if other issues are present, they could be causing the P0130 code to be set.
P0130 Diagnostics #6: Check Oxygen Sensor
When you look at your scan tool, the first thing you should do is check the readings from the oxygen sensor. You want to aim for an output voltage that falls somewhere between 0.1 and 0.9 volts. Because the input should fluctuate quite a bit as well, you should not consider it to be an issue if that is how the readings are behaving.
In fact, you need to be more concerned if there is absolutely no fluctuation in them at all (if this is the case, the sensor is probably also faulty). Anything that falls outside of this range is an indication that something is not functioning as it should.
P0130 Diagnostics #7: Verify The Air-Fuel Ratio Sensor Readings
The ideal range is 3.3 volts and a reading close to 14.7:1. Some fluctuations from this range are normal, but if the readings are significantly outside of it, there may be a problem. If the readings are extremely far from ideal, it is likely the sensor needs to be replaced.
P0130 Diagnostics #8: Check The Coolant Temperature Sensor
The coolant temperature sensor should output 2 volts when the engine is cold and 0.5 volts when it is warm. Even a slight deviation of 0.25 volts from these readings indicates an issue. Hence, you’ll need to fix it or call for professional help.
P0130 Diagnostics #9: Seek A Professional Help
If all the above steps are taken and the problem still persists, try replacing the oxygen sensor and clearing the code by using an OBD scan tool.
Also, it may be necessary to bring the vehicle to a dealership. Only a dealership or a professional has the resources to properly diagnose and fix any potential problems with the PCM, whether they are due to a malfunction or are simply out of date.
Last Words on Code P0130
The P0130 code is an indication of a problem with the oxygen sensor circuit in bank 1, sensor 1. To fix this, you’ll need to figure out what’s wrong with the sensor or the circuit and fix it. This means checking the sensor, the wiring and connections, the exhaust system, the air intake system, and the engine control module.
However, if you’re going through this challenge right now, take your car to a professional to diagnose and repair the problem as soon as possible to prevent any further damage to your engine. Also, to ensure that it is running efficiently and emitting as few pollutants as possible.
FAQs About P0130
If you’re curious to learn more about the P0130 code, our FAQs here might help…
Where is Bank 1 Sensor 1 Located
No matter what kind of car it is, bank 1 sensor 1 is between the engine and the catalytic converter. This will be the only sensor upstream on engines that run in a line. On V-shaped engines, you need to figure out which side is bank 1.
Which O2 Sensor Is Bank 1
On the side of the engine with the first cylinder, the O2 sensor (bank 1, sensor 1) will be in front of or upstream of the catalytic converter. This is because bank 1 stands for the engine’s number one cylinder, while sensor 1 is the name for the cylinder that comes before it.
Can A O2 Sensor Cause A Car To Cut Off
Can an O2 sensor shut down a car? Yes, a bad O2 sensor can indeed cause your car to stop running. The O2 sensor in your vehicle checks how much oxygen is in the engine. For combustion to happen properly in an engine, the amount of oxygen and gas needs to be just right. If this ratio isn’t right, the engine won’t work as well or might be cut off.
Can A Bad O2 Sensor Cause A Misfire Code
If an oxygen sensor is failing, it could send the wrong information to the computer in your engine, causing it to misfire. When a vacuum line breaks, it can make a motor that uses fuel injection misfire.
How to Test O2 Sensor Using an OBD2 Scan Tool
Connect the diagnostic link connector (DLC) on your car to the diagnostic link connector (OBD2) on your scan tool. Start your car’s engine so that the scanner can communicate with the onboard system, then go to the menu and select Codes or Trouble Codes, then select the system that is giving you trouble. After you do this, two or more codes will show up on your screen that can help you diagnose the problem.
What To Do After Replacing Oxygen Sensor
After the new sensor has been put in, the codes must be cleared before you can move on. Establish a connection between the OBD II scan tool and the vehicle, then erase any stored fault codes. Get the vehicle moving. After the error codes have been removed, take out the key, put it back in, and then turn the ignition to start the vehicle.
What Does A Car Do When The Oxygen Sensor Is Bad
Driving with a broken oxygen sensor might not seem like a big deal at first, but the longer you do it, the worse the problems will get. Over time, your car may start to have rough idling, slow acceleration, engine misfires, a lit check engine light, and it may not pass emission tests.
How Much For An Oxygen Sensor
Prices for a replacement oxygen sensor can range from under $100 to over $300, depending on the model. But this doesn’t take into account the labor costs, which can be very different depending on where the sensor is in your car. This means that the overall cost of replacing an oxygen sensor may vary significantly based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Can A Bad O2 Sensor Cause A Car To Stall
Yes, a bad O2 sensor can indeed cause your car to stall. The O2 sensor in your vehicle checks how much oxygen is in the engine. For combustion to happen correctly in an engine, the amount of oxygen and gas needs to be just right. If this ratio isn’t right, the engine won’t work as well or might not work at all.
What Does The Oxygen Sensor Do
An oxygen sensor plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of a vehicle. It is responsible for detecting the amount of oxygen present in the exhaust gas and relaying that information to the engine control unit (ECU). Based on this data, the ECU adjusts the air-fuel ratio to ensure that the engine is running efficiently and producing minimal emissions.
