The check engine light on my 2004 Avalon (132K miles) came on yesterday. Scanner read PO155 which is for air/fuel ratio sensor bank 2 sensor 1.
I took it to two shops and each gave me estimates around $300.00. Each of them also told me that I could drive without a repair although gas mileage might suffer. No emissions test here in Mass. on cars older than 15 years.
My questions are: 1) Is it okay to drive without the repair? I only drive 5000/year and I don't mind low gas mileage. But I don't want to harm the engine. 2) Each estimate involved a new sensor and labor. Is there a chance that there might simply be a wiring problem or loose connection?
Looking forward to your answers.
CBQBill
https://www.obd-codes.com/p0155
Scanner read PO155 which is for air/fuel ratio sensor bank 2 sensor 1.
That should be number zero. 'P' for powertrain, and then 4-digit number
The full code description is
O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 1)
I took it to two shops and each gave me estimates around $300.00.
That is a very reasonably priced repair. I suggest taking them up on the offer.
Is it okay to drive without the repair? I only drive 5000/year and I don't mind low gas mileage. But I don't want to harm the engine.
It's a good idea to fix this problem. Running a mixture that is too rich, or too lean, can damage the engine and catalytic converter ($$$) over time.
Is there a chance that there might simply be a wiring problem or loose connection?
Of course. O2 sensors have wires and connectors. Go ahead and check them.
While you're down there, you could just pick up the sensor for around $100 and change it yourself. It's not a difficult job.
THANKS FOR A GREAT RESPOINSE. I'LL HAVE THE SENSOR REPLACED NEXT WEEK
This is only a 30 mins job. For $300 dollars just change it. Generally speaking, in a car, when one component is defective, it creates a domino effect causing other components to degrade. That could end up way more than just $300. Perhaps a few thousand.
