Fix P0060: Mechanic’s solutions that WORKED

The P0060: HO2S Heater Resistance (Bank 2, Sensor 2) points to a fault in the heater resistance of the oxygen sensor located in bank 2, sensor 2. This sensor is crucial for optimizing the air-fuel mixture for combustion, directly influencing the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and emissions. A fault in this system can lead to increased fuel consumption and emission problems.

P0060 quick overview

Meaning	P0060: HO2S Heater Resistance (Bank 2, Sensor 2)
Is it serious?	This code can indicate a significant issue affecting the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and emissions, warranting timely attention.
Possible causes	– Faulty or failing O2 sensor (Bank 2, Sensor 2) – Wiring or connector issues at the O2 sensor – Exhaust leaks near the O2 sensor – Problems with the vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM)
How to diagnose?	Check O2 Sensor: Inspect the Bank 2, Sensor 2 O2 sensor for signs of damage or wear. Inspect Wiring and Connectors: Examine the sensor’s wiring and connectors for corrosion, damage, or loose connections. Test Sensor Functionality: Measure the resistance of the O2 sensor to ensure it operates within specifications. Look for Exhaust Leaks: Check for any leaks in the exhaust system near the sensor location. Evaluate PCM: Consider the possibility of PCM issues, especially if other related codes are present. Clear Diagnostic Codes: After addressing potential issues, clear the code and monitor if it reappears.

How to fix P0060 – learn from mechanics

I looked into P0060 service cases at iatn.com website where in the private forums the mechanics seek advice from other mechanics. I looked up a bunch of cases to help you decide how to fix your issue and see what would a real mechanic do to solve it.

Case #1: Chevrolet

Vehicle Information: 2010 Chevrolet Express 2500 6.0L, MIL Lamp on

Issue + Repair History:

• Initially reported with codes P0157 and P0137 (O2 low voltage).
• Rear O2 sensors replaced with Bosch sensors.
• Truck returned with codes P0054 and P0060 (high resistance in heater circuit B2S2 B1S2).
• Replaced O2 sensors again with Bosch, performed O2 heater relearn, but same codes returned.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P0057 – High resistance in B2S2 heater.
• P0060 – High resistance in B1S2 heater.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Perform O2 sensor relearn using Tech 2 or Snap On scanners.
• Check and possibly replace the fuse for the heater circuit.
• Use OEM sensors (Denso) instead of Bosch.
• Ensure proper relearn procedure, as resistance values change with age.

Final Fix:

• The final fix involved replacing Bosch O2 sensors with Denso sensors. The higher resistance of Denso sensors (5 ohms more than Bosch) addressed the high resistance issue. The absence of further complaints indicated that the issue was resolved.

Case #2: Ford

Vehicle Information: 2006 Ford E-250 5.4L, No Start, Poor Idle Quality, MIL Lamp on

Issue + Repair History:

• Initially had a P0353 code (ignition coil ‘C’ circuit fault).
• Cylinder #3 coil replaced, resolving misfire.
• Van returned, unable to communicate with scanner due to a blown fuse.
• After fuse replacement, van had a bad misfire; codes P0060, P2105, P0353 appeared.
• Coil #3 tested and found to have abnormal resistance (0.01 ohms).

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P0060 – HO2S heater resistance bank 2 sensor 2.
• P0353 – Ignition coil ‘C’ primary/secondary circuit fault.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check the quality of replacement parts, specifically coils.
• Inspect for wiring problems, possibly from varmint damage or pinched/open harness.
• Examine harness over driver’s side valve cover for rubbing or damage.
• Consider potential coolant leak affecting coils.
• Conduct continuity test from PCM pins to coil harnesses.
• Inspect wiring for shorts, especially around AC brackets and pulleys.

Final Fix:

• The issue was resolved by locating the main engine harness rubbing against the EGR tube, causing a short in the #3 coil driver wire. This discovery and repair fixed the problem.

Case #3: GMC

Vehicle Information: 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 4.8L, MIL Lamp on

Issue + Repair History:

• Truck displaying repeated P0054 and P0060 codes simultaneously.
• Initial diagnostics showed no issues with wiring, fuses, or sensors.
• OEM AC Delco rear O2 sensors replaced; however, the problem persisted.
• PCM replaced and programmed, yet the issue remained.
• O2 sensor wiring and power source rewired, but the light returned.
• Ignition switch replaced as a potential fix, but it did not resolve the issue.
• Thorough testing showed no loss of power or issues with the O2 sensors.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P0054 – B1S2 High heater O2 resistance.
• P0060 – B2S2 high heater O2 resistance.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Voltage drop testing on ECM power, ground, and IGN feeds.
• Checking and possibly improving ground connections.
• Inspecting shared ground between sensors and adding additional ground wire(s).
• Investigating potential splice issues in the fuse box leading to high resistance.
• Using a “circuit load tester” to identify voltage drop problems.
• Checking the underhood fuse block and power supply from O2B fuse.
• Ensuring sensors are the correct type for the specific vehicle model.

Final Fix:

• The issue was resolved after discovering that the AC Delco O2 sensors were incorrectly boxed. Replacement sensors from GM directly resolved the issue. The sensor part numbers had a slight difference, which turned out to be critical for correct operation. This fix was confirmed after hundreds of miles and several weeks without the MIL lamp turning on.

Case #4: Mercedes

Vehicle Information: 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK350 3.5L, MIL Lamp on

Issue + Repair History:

• Coolant temperature seemed low, taking a long time to reach 180 degrees F.
• Upstream O2 sensors were around 0.6 volts and not fluctuating as expected.
• Other codes appeared, initially thought to be related to cam timing affecting the mixture.
• Codes cleared, but MIL lamp returned after about 20 miles.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P0746 – Right bank fuel mix out of range mixture.
• P2092 – Right bank too rich at idle.
• P0750 – Self-adapt for left bank out of range.
• P096 – Left bank too rich at idle.
• P0060 – Heater resistance

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check the seal between the MAF and the air cleaner for integrity.
• Inspect for air leaks around the intake and MAF.
• Consider the possibility of a faulty MAF sensor.
• Ensure proper seating of the air filter assembly.
• Reset adaptations with a scan tool, if available.
• Verify coolant temperature and consider thermostat replacement.

Final Fix:

• The issue was resolved after ensuring the air filter assembly was properly seated.
• After clearing the codes and an extended test drive, the codes did not reappear.
• The vehicle remained problem-free for almost a week.

Case #5: Chevrolet

Vehicle Information: 2006 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD LT 6.0L, MIL Lamp on, Reduced Power

Issue + Repair History:

• Intermittent issue: Service engine soon light on, reduced power message, engine not responding to pedal movement.
• Codes P1516, P0053, P0054, P0059, P0060 consistently set.
• Throttle body connector replaced without resolving the issue.
• O2 sensors ohm tested and found okay; one O2 sensor replaced but problem persisted.
• Battery load tested weak and was replaced; charging system okay.
• Ignition switch suspected as a potential cause due to its connection to throttle module and O2 sensor heaters.

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results:

• P1516 – Throttle Actuator Control Module.
• P0053 – HO2S Heater Resistance B1S1.
• P0054 – HO2S Heater Resistance B1S2.
• P0059 – HO2S Heater Resistance B2S1.
• P0060 – HO2S Heater Resistance B2S2.

Suggestions to Fix Issue:

• Check and clean ground points, especially on the frame rail.
• Investigate the possibility of an aftermarket remote start system causing issues.
• Examine the wiring diagram for common elements, particularly ground connections.
• Clean and secure ground connections, including the fuel pump ground near the left rear tire.

Summary:

• The vehicle had not returned for further evaluation due to the customer’s unavailability.
• Actions taken included replacing the battery and cleaning ground points on the frame rail.
• The effectiveness of these measures was not confirmed due to lack of customer feedback.

Advice	Brief Description of Diagnostic Step
Check O2 Sensor Connections	Inspect the connections and wiring of O2 sensors for proper contact.
Verify Sensor Functionality	Test the resistance and performance of O2 sensors to ensure they function correctly.
Inspect Ground Connections	Check and clean ground points, particularly on the frame rail for proper electrical grounding.
Ensure Proper Sensor Seating	Make sure O2 sensors and related components are correctly installed and seated.
Consider the Impact of Other Parts	Evaluate if other vehicle components, such as the battery or throttle body, might influence the O2 sensor functionality.
Evaluate for Aftermarket Modifications	Check if any aftermarket installations like remote start systems might affect the sensor’s operation.
Reset Adaptations and Codes	After repairs or replacements, clear any stored codes and reset adaptations as necessary.
Investigate for Potential Wiring Issues	Examine wiring harnesses and connections for any signs of damage or wear that might affect sensor operation.
Use Quality Replacement Parts	Ensure that any replacement parts, especially sensors, are of good quality and compatible with the vehicle.