What does the P0141 OBD-II code mean? 

The P0141 code is a generic OBD-II code indicating a malfunction with the O2 bank 1 sensor 2 heater circuit. This is the sensor behind the catalyst on bank 1 of the engine. On startup, the engine control module (ECM) tests the O2 sensor heater circuit, and if a malfunction is detected, the P0141 trouble code is triggered. 

How serious is the P0141 code?

The diagnostic code P0141 is considered a moderately serious trouble code, and any extended driving may cause internal engine damage. Whilst it is, therefore, possible to continue driving a vehicle showing a P0141 trouble code, it’s preferable to get the car diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to avoid expensive additional costs. 

What are the common symptoms of a P0141 trouble code?

The most commonly experienced symptoms when a P0141 OBD-II code is triggered are:

  • Check engine light illuminates 
  • Decreased fuel efficiency
  • The engine may run rough
  • Misfires (rare)

What are the causes of a P0141 diagnostic code?

The most common causes for the P0141 trouble code triggering are:

  • Faulty oxygen sensor
  • Defective wiring/connections around oxygen sensor
  • Open ground or short in the wiring
  • Excessive current draw from the oxygen sensor

How to diagnose a P0141 OBD-II code?

The quickest way to diagnose a fault code is to use an OBD-II scanner or book a diagnostic check with a trusted garage or mechanic. Following the diagnostic steps fully and correctly is essential for accurate diagnosis:

  • Scan your system for other OBD-II codes. If present, these must be resolved first.
  • Clear the fault codes, then follow this with a test drive of the car while reading the live data on an OBD-II scanner.
  • Monitor the O2 sensor data to check heater circuit is operational for bank 1 sensor 2
  • Visually check the electrical connections and wiring around the oxygen sensor and wiring harness for damage or corrosion.
  • Check the power to the O2 sensor heater circuit
  • Check for a blown fuse to the heater circuit
  • Check the O2 sensor heater circuit for the proper resistance 

How to fix a P0141 OBD-II fault code?

After each check/work is performed, it’s recommended to test drive the vehicle to see if the OBD-II code clears. If the fault code returns, move on to the next repair. The most common repairs (in no particular order) to resolve a P0141 are below:

  • Confirm the code using an OBD-II scanner, and then reset the trouble code. You should then test drive the car to see if the code returns. If it does return:
  • Clean away any corrosion found on the engine ground 
  • Clean the oxygen sensor, removing any dirt and corrosion around the connections
  • Repair or replace wiring or connection to the O2 sensor for bank 1 sensor 2
  • Replace the fuse to the heater circuit for the O2 sensor he