Emission controls · Powertrain · generic (SAE-defined)
P0160: O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 2 Sensor 2)
P0160 means the engine computer sees no meaningful signal from the downstream oxygen sensor on bank 2, located after that side's catalytic converter.
Standard title per SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 · Updated 2026-11-07 · By CarWhere Research
How P0160 sets
The powertrain control module (PCM) expects the bank 2 sensor 2 oxygen (O2) sensor to move away from its bias voltage once warm. If the signal stays flat near that bias for a calibrated period, the PCM decides the sensor or circuit is inactive and sets P0160. Values and timing are manufacturer-specific.
Common causes of P0160
Roughly most likely first; the actual cause depends on the vehicle and needs testing to confirm.
- Open signal or ground wire to the bank 2 downstream sensor
- Failed bank 2 sensor 2 oxygen sensor
- Heater failure preventing the sensor from warming up
- Disconnected or corroded connector
- Blown heater fuse
P0160 symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Usually no drivability symptoms
- Heater code P0161 may also be present
How P0160 is diagnosed
- Scan for codes; check heater code P0161 first if present.
- Inspect the wiring along the underbody and the connector for damage.
- Measure heater resistance and check the heater fuse.
- Watch live data during a warm drive; a flat reading confirms no activity.
- Test the signal and ground circuits for continuity.
Typical fixes for P0160
- Repair broken wiring or the connector
- Replace the bank 2 sensor 2 oxygen sensor
- Replace a blown fuse after finding the cause
Replace parts only after testing confirms the cause — a code names the circuit or condition that failed a check, not necessarily the faulty part. We don’t publish per-repair prices; for what households actually spend on upkeep, see car repair costs.
Related codes & warning lights
P0160 FAQ
What does code P0160 mean?
P0160 means the engine computer sees no meaningful signal from the downstream oxygen sensor on bank 2, located after that side's catalytic converter. The standard definition is "O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 2 Sensor 2)."
Can I drive with a P0160 code?
Yes, typically with no change in how the car drives. The catalyst monitor for bank 2 cannot run, so an emissions test will likely fail until it is fixed.
Why does P0160 often appear after exhaust work?
The downstream sensor connector or wiring can be left unplugged, stretched or damaged when exhaust parts are replaced.
Does P0160 hurt fuel economy?
Usually not noticeably, because the downstream sensor has only a small role in fuel control on most vehicles.
Keep researching
More emission controls codes
Sources
- SAE J2012 — Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (standard code titles)
- ISO 15031-6 — Road vehicles: communication between vehicle and external equipment for emissions-related diagnostics, Part 6: Diagnostic trouble code definitions
- U.S. EPA — Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs
- U.S. EPA, 40 CFR 86.1806-17 — Federal onboard diagnostics requirements for light-duty vehicles
- California Air Resources Board — On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) Program
General information written by CarWhere Research, not a diagnosis of your vehicle. Manufacturers can add their own sub-definitions and test conditions; confirm with the factory service information for your year, make and model. Before paying for a repair, check NHTSA for open recalls and your warranty booklet: federal law requires an emissions warranty on major emission-control parts such as the catalytic converter and engine computer.