What Is the P0060 Code?
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The OBD-II Code P0060 indicates a Heater Resistance Bank 2 Sensor 2 problem. It sets when your vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM) detects a possible malfunction with the downstream oxygen sensor on the engine’s Bank 2 side. Sometimes called Bank 2 Sensor 2, this heated O2 sensor measures the oxygen content in the engine exhaust gas exiting the catalytic converter against ambient air, ensuring the converter operates optimally. An incorrect reading will result in a P0060 error code.
You may also be interested in P0053 HO2S Heater Resistance.
More About Error Code P0060
In line with OBD-II current requirements, gasoline powered cars manufactured after 1996 have heated oxygen sensors. In contrast, the integration of HO2S in diesel vehicles commenced in the 2000’s. Apart from the upper O2 sensors, all vehicles must have a second sensor under the catalytic converter that monitors the latter’s operating efficiency.
The primary function of the catalytic converter is to filter toxic compounds in the exhaust gas. Conversely, the post-catalytic converter oxygen sensor (Sensor 2) measures the percentage of oxygen particles in the exhaust gas against the surrounding ambient air. It comprises of porous platinum electrodes connecting the sensing element to wire sensors in the oxygen sensor wiring harness.
Heated O2 sensors require heat to operate effectively. They have an internal heating element to speed up the time needed for the O2 to function and allow closed-loop operation faster. When the exhaust and vehicle is heated up, the heater circuit is not needed until the O2 cools back down when the car is stopped. The downstream sensor has a heater circuit that draws power from the ECM, bringing the sensor up to an optimal operating temperature of 600 °F. It uses battery voltage to preheat to the correct temperature range in cold start conditions.
Once heated, the sensor will measure the exhaust stream and then generate a voltage signal or change its electrical resistance. The sensor’s heater control circuit sends the generated data to the ECM for processing. The ECM uses the data to calculate ignition timing and fuel delivery. If the ECM detects an unusually high resistance level from the O2 sensor heater circuit greater than the programmed limitations, it will log error code P0060 on the OBD-II system. The check engine light will illuminate to indicate a problem.
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What Are the Symptoms of a P0060 Code?
Discerning the symptoms of a P0060 code can be tricky since they have striking similarities with other OBD-II Codes. After all, these fault codes relate to your car’s engine performance. Whatever the case, the first sign of the P0060 error code is the check engine light. This malfunction indicator light will come on when your car’s ECM detects a problem. Other common symptoms of this diagnostic trouble code include the following:
- Multiple ignition cycles in cold start conditions
- Smog or black exhaust smoke
- Decreased fuel efficiency
- Reduced engine performance
- Engine failsafe mode
- Limited driveability
- Hot exhaust pipes
- The emergence of generic powertrain codes
What Are Some Causes of a P0060 Code?
The primary cause of a code P0060 malfunction is a faulty Bank 2 Sensor 2. The downstream oxygen system after the catalytic converter might have issues causing it to generate inaccurate readings. Here are other possible causes of a P0060 fault code:
- Broken heater wire
- Burnt fusible link
- Blown fuse
- Corroded sensor ground
- Defective catalytic converter
- Faulty Engine Control Relay
- Faulty ECM
- Disconnected wiring and connectors
How Serious Is the P0060 Code?
Any malfunction that adversely affects engine performance is a serious problem, and code P0060 is no exception. The ECM receives data from the downstream O2 sensor to determine ignition timing and fuel delivery.
Inaccurate readings will cause the fuel pump relay to deliver the incorrect amount of fuel to the engine, decreasing fuel efficiency. Too much air can lead to lean fuel, causing your car to stall. You’ll also require multiple ignition cycles to start your car’s engine. Delayed start-ups are not anything you want to experience when running late.
A P0060 error code will also cause the catalytic converter to malfunction and release toxic gases through the car’s exhaust. In this case, you will fail vehicle emissions testing, which can incur fines and will impact your ability to get your annual vehicle registration completed.
Can I Still Drive with a P0060 Code?
Even though you can still drive with a P0060 code, doing so for an extended period is not advisable. Depending on the vehicle in question, this engine code might trigger limp mode, limiting your car’s operating range. Besides, you may have to spend more on fuel costs since this error increases fuel consumption.
Driving with a P0060 code increases the likelihood of damaging other components. The catalytic converter might stop working altogether, increasing your repair costs. There’s also a slight chance of causing permanent engine damage, meaning you may have to replace the engine.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P0060 Code?
Even though the internet is awash with numerous resources, looking for an answer from sites and repair forums is not the best way to diagnose a P0060 code. It’s easy to misdiagnose the problem since the information you get from third-party online sites might not be 100% accurate.
Besides, you require tools, like a digital volt-ohm meter and a voltage reader, to test the level of resistance and voltage in the circuit in question. These tools are often not readily available, and you might not know how to use them correctly. Then again, you might diagnose and replace the wrong sensor, further damaging your car.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P0060 Code?
A visual inspection of the P0060 code won’t work. The downstream heated oxygen sensor is beneath the vehicle next to the catalytic converter. Accessing it requires some expertise, only provided by a qualified technician.
Need Additional Help with Your P0060 Code?
Avoid a DIY approach when troubleshooting error code P0060. Instead, schedule an appointment with a reputable service center to resolve the P0060 code and restore your vehicle to optimal condition. A qualified technician will troubleshoot the faulty heated oxygen sensor and provide the correct diagnosis, ensuring the O2 sensor generates an accurate voltage signal. An experienced technician will know about various O2 codes and what they mean. They can also guide you on what to do if the code returns.
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