Can drive — fix at your convenience.
This code means the downstream oxygen sensor on Bank 1 (Sensor 2, after the catalytic converter) is reporting a steadily low voltage, suggesting it sees a constant lean condition or has a circuit fault. Common culprits include a worn-out sensor, wiring or connector problems, or an exhaust leak letting in extra air. The repair usually involves replacing the oxygen sensor or fixing the related wiring.
$150 – $400
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
For short trips, usually yes. The sensor involved monitors emissions rather than controlling how the engine runs, so the car should drive normally. Just don't let it sit indefinitely, and expect to fail an emissions test until it's fixed.
Expect roughly $150 to $400 in most cases. Replacing the oxygen sensor is the typical fix and accounts for most of the cost. If the problem is a wiring fault or exhaust leak instead, pricing can vary up or down.
No, it's usually a low-severity issue. Your engine won't be in danger and you can drive in the short term, but it does affect emissions and can slightly reduce fuel economy. It's worth fixing promptly so it doesn't hide a developing exhaust or fuel problem.
The downstream sensor's voltage stays low, which the computer reads as too much oxygen in the exhaust, a sign of a lean mixture. That can come from the sensor itself going bad or from an exhaust leak letting air in. A proper diagnosis sorts out which it is before any parts get replaced.