thomaszimmermann20

Pilot oxygen sensor heater failure

Hey, I'm scratching my head over something with my 2009 Honda Pilot, gasoline engine. The check engine light is on, and the code reader says it's an oxygen sensor heater failure. I've noticed my fuel consumption creeping up, which makes sense if the air-fuel ratio is off. I suspect the O2 sensor is not getting up to temperature correctly. I had a quick look and the wiring seems ok-ish…Could it be a bad connection, or is the sensor itself fried? I'm trying to avoid a big bill if I can!

The conversation revolves around a 2009 Honda Pilot experiencing a check engine light due to an oxygen sensor heater failure, leading to increased fuel consumption. The issue is suspected to be either a bad connection or a faulty sensor. After considering potential causes, it is suggested to check for oxidation in the plug connection, which is a common issue. Ultimately, the problem is resolved by replacing a corroded plug connection at a local garage, successfully turning off the check engine light and avoiding the cost of a new sensor.

Did this summary help you solve your problem?

4 comment(s)

Could be either, honestly. A faulty connection is way more common than a failed sensor. Did you check the plug connection? Oxidation can build up and cause issues. Is the sensor heater not getting any voltage, or is it getting voltage but not heating up? Have you tested the sensor?

Good point about oxidation. I'll check the plug more closely. As for the voltage, I don't have the equipment to measure that at the moment. I suppose I could buy a multimeter... Is there an easy way to tell if it's definitely the sensor without specialized tools?

Without a multimeter or scan tool that shows live sensor data, it's tough to be 100% certain. Given your error code and higher fuel consumption, and considering you can't easily test the sensor heater circuit, probably you should get it checked by a workshop. Oxygen sensor heater issues can quickly mess with your vehicle emissions system. You can end up spending way more if the car is not running optimally. Seems like it should be a fairly simple fix, based on your description.

Thanks for the advice! After cleaning the connector didn't do much, I took your advice and went to a local garage. Turns out it was a corroded plug connection, just like you thought. They replaced the connector and the check engine light is off. Repair cost was 95€ - far better than a new sensor! Thanks again for pointing me in the right direction.

rmh_community_comment_box_header

community_crosslink_scanner_headline

community_crosslink_scanner_intro

community_crosslink_scanner_title

community_crosslink_scanner_price

community_crosslink_rmh_headline

community_crosslink_rmh_intro

community_crosslink_rmh_title

community_crosslink_rmh_subtitle

community_crosslink_rmh_brand

HONDA

community_crosslink_rmh_model

PILOT