Emissions

P0060 — O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Resistance (Bank 2, Sensor 2)

Severity: low Safe to drive

What P0060 means

The PCM monitors the heater circuit of the downstream (post-catalyst) oxygen sensor on Bank 2, Sensor 2. The heater brings the sensor up to operating temperature quickly after a cold start so it can give a reliable signal. P0060 sets when the resistance or current in this circuit is outside the expected range, due to an open, a short or a worn heater element.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine light on
  • Slightly higher fuel consumption possible
  • Failed emissions test
  • Often no noticeable change in driveability
  • Occasionally an unstable idle

Possible causes

  1. Failed heater element in the Bank 2 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor
  2. Damaged, corroded or broken wiring or connector at the sensor
  3. Blown fuse or faulty relay feeding the heater circuit
  4. Short to ground or to power in the heater circuit
  5. Faulty heater driver inside the PCM (rare)

How to diagnose

  1. Scan for codes and freeze frame data, and note any other oxygen sensor codes
  2. Inspect the sensor harness and connector for chafing, corrosion or contact with the exhaust
  3. Check the heater fuse and relay using the vehicle wiring diagram
  4. Measure the heater resistance across the sensor pins and compare it to the factory spec
  5. Check for power and the control signal at the connector with the ignition on and engine running
  6. Test the wiring back to the PCM for opens and shorts to ground
  7. Confirm the sensor is on Bank 2 and wasn't swapped with another
  8. Look for exhaust leaks near the sensor

Common fixes

  • Replace the Bank 2 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor
  • Repair the wiring or replace a damaged connector
  • Replace the blown fuse or bad relay and find out why it failed
  • Repair or replace the PCM if confirmed faulty (rare)

Questions and answers

What does P0060 mean?

It is a fault in the heater circuit of the downstream oxygen sensor on Bank 2. The PCM sees resistance outside the normal range, most often from a failed heater in the sensor or a wiring problem.

Can I drive with P0060?

Usually yes, as it won't harm the engine. Still, repair it reasonably soon to avoid failing an inspection and to keep the Check Engine light free to warn you about other faults.

Do I always need a new sensor?

No. Check the fuse, relay, wiring and connector first. If power reaches the sensor and the heater resistance is out of spec, the sensor needs replacing.

This is general information about the code. The meaning can differ between makes and models: a scan tool and the repair manual for your car will show the exact cause.