P0141 — O2 Sensor Heater Circuit (Bank 1, Sensor 2)
Drive with caution — fix soon.
What P0141 means
P0141 means the heater circuit in the rear oxygen sensor on Bank 1 isn't drawing the current the computer expects. The internal heater helps the sensor reach operating temperature quickly so it can monitor the catalytic converter sooner after start-up. The usual fix is a new sensor, though a blown fuse or damaged wiring can also cause it.
Common symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Usually no change in drivability
- Failed emissions test
- Possible slightly higher cold-start emissions
- May appear with other O2 heater codes
Common causes
- Failed heater element in the downstream oxygen sensor
- Blown fuse for the sensor heater circuit
- Corroded or damaged wiring or connector
- Open or poor ground in the heater circuit
- Relay or power-supply fault to the heater
- Moisture or salt intrusion at the connector
Typical repair cost
$150 – $450
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with a P0141 code?
Yes, it's usually safe short-term and you likely won't notice a difference. Fix it soon, mainly so you can pass emissions and the converter stays monitored.
How much does it cost to fix P0141?
Replacing the downstream oxygen sensor typically costs $150-$450 with labor. A blown fuse or simple wiring repair can be cheaper.
Is P0141 serious?
It's moderate. It rarely affects how the car drives, but it will fail an emissions test and should be repaired so the converter is properly monitored.
Is P0141 different from P0135?
Yes. Both are oxygen sensor heater faults on Bank 1, but P0135 is the front sensor before the converter and P0141 is the rear sensor after it.