What Is the P1167 Code?
Symptoms
Causes
Seriousness
Can I Still Drive?
Diagnose
Difficulty of Inspecting
Get Additional Help
Error code P1167 is a generic trouble code that comes on when the Air/Fuel sensor is malfunctioning. This specific malfunction occurs when the A/F sensor 1 does not achieve the specified voltage.
Being key to the measuring and maintenance of the Air/Fuel Ratio, Sensor 1 is located in the exhaust system. Its main role is to keep track of the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gas and send the data to the Engine Control Unit (ECU).
Among the data that sensor 1 transmits is the output voltage of the heat embedded in the sensor. The heater produces the heat that the sensor requires to accurately detect oxygen under different conditions and temperatures.
If the terminal voltage in the heater or its element is too low, or the heater is faulty, the ECU notes it as a malfunction. As a result, the P1167 error code appears.
Who Has the Lowest Price?
Some service centers will give you an online estimate to compare. Why drive around Town!?
What Are the Symptoms of a P1167 Code?
If your car has this error code, it may exhibit some or all of the following symptoms:
- Check Engine Light
- Rough idling (intermittent rumbling of the engine when the car is in park mode)
- Engine pinging
- Higher than usual fuel consumption
- Increase in exhaust emissions
- Drop in engine power
What Are Some Causes of a P1167 Code?
Due to its location (in the exhaust manifold), sensor 1 has a relatively high level of interaction with dirt, fuel, grime, and debris. These objects can damage, or interfere with the sensor and affect its circuitry and ability to transmit data.
Additional factors that may cause your A/F sensor to malfunction include:
- Bad fuel pressure
- Faulty fuel injector
- Faulty electrical connections
How Serious Is the P1167 Code?
Error code P1167 is a moderately serious problem. As such, you should tow your vehicle to your nearest car repair shop as soon as it pops up for further diagnosis.
For one, a malfunctioning sensor means your car is producing more smoke than normal. Moreover, the incomplete burn occasioned by the broken Air/Fuel ratio control system will cause you to fail your emissions tests.
From an economical perspective, a malfunctioning A/F sensor 1 can significantly ramp up your fuel expenditure. This is particularly noticeable during long journeys.
The code may also cause problems with the catalytic converter and engine. This may trigger other codes and an even higher inspection bill.
Can I Still Drive with a P1167 Code?
For the most part, it is possible to drive your car even with a P1167 code. However, you only want to do this in the short term, as prolonged driving with the error code can cause more problems.
In particular, you should be extra cautious if the car is exhibiting problems like rough idling, poor acceleration, engine stalling, and poor fuel economy.
Often, these problems can trigger other error codes like P0089, and P0190.
Further, if the problem lies within the sensor itself, or its heating element, driving with Code P1167 active can worsen it. For instance, you may go from having a poor electrical connection in the sensor to having to replace the entire sensor.
How Easy Is It to Diagnose a P1167 Code?
P1167 Code is rather easy to diagnose as it affects a specific sensor. It also has some obvious symptoms, like excessive smoke, and reduced gas mileage.
To reduce the chances of a misdiagnosis, it is better to have a professional do the inspection. They will have the necessary tools (multimeter, diagnostic scanner, etc.) and will know where to check for problems.
Although different technicians have their methods, the first step in diagnosing a P1167 code is to test the sensor’s voltage using a multimeter.
The readings should match those indicated in the repair instructions. If not, the sensor is faulty.
Next up is the wiring in the sensor. Check for any stripped or chaffed wires, and loose or disconnected connections.
If both the sensor and the wiring are not faulty, the problem could be in the ECU or the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). A good technician will make sure to check those as well.
How Difficult Is It to Inspect a P1167 Code?
The difficulty, and cost, of solving a P1167 Code depends on the specific part that has a problem.
It can be as simple as replacing the sensor, or the wiring, or as complicated as inspecting the ECU and PCU and the fuel pressure pump.
It is also going to be more difficult to solve the code if it causes, or is caused by, other codes.
Need Additional Help with Your P1167 Code?
Fuel efficiency, stable engine power, and proper emission control are often attained when your engine receives the right amount of air/fuel mixture.
The P1167 error code indicates a mild or severe problem in your vehicle’s A/F ratio sensor, which may negatively affect your vehicle’s performance.
As such, it is prudent to learn more about error codes and how to detect them by visiting the KBB OBD-II database.
P1167 Q&A
Common Error Codes
Browse All OBD-II Codes
Get Recall Alerts
All recalls are considered serious. Stay safe. Take care of any recalls ASAP. The good news? Recall repairs are free when performed at a local dealer.