Fix P0061: Mechanic’s Solutions That WORKED!

The OBD2 code P0061 signifies “HO2S Heater Resistance Bank 2 Sensor 3,” pointing to an issue with the heating element resistance of the oxygen sensor located in Bank 2, Sensor 3. This sensor plays a critical role in monitoring the exhaust gases and ensuring optimal combustion by adjusting the fuel mixture.

A malfunction in the sensor’s heater can lead to inaccurate readings, triggering the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and potentially impacting engine performance and emissions.

P0061 quick overview

MeaningP0061: HO2S Heater Resistance Bank 2 Sensor 3
Is it serious?Yes, it can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased emissions.
Possible causes– Faulty or failing oxygen sensor heater
– Corroded or damaged wiring and connectors
– Faults in the Engine Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) circuits
– Poor electrical connections or grounding issues
How to diagnose?Check for proper power and ground at the oxygen sensor connector to ensure it’s receiving the necessary voltage.
Verify continuity of the heater circuit within the wiring harness to rule out any open or short circuits.
Inspect the ECM (or PCM) for any software or hardware issues that could affect heater control.
Test for excessive resistance in the heater circuit to confirm it matches manufacturer specifications.
Overview of P0061 trouble code

P0061 Meaning

When you encounter the P0061 code, it means there’s a problem with the heater in one of your car’s oxygen sensors. This specific sensor is supposed to help your car’s engine run efficiently by heating up quickly and measuring the exhaust gases accurately.

If the heater’s resistance isn’t what it should be, the sensor might not work right, leading to potential issues like bad fuel economy and higher emissions. Fixing this problem often involves checking the sensor’s wiring and electrical connections, making sure it’s getting power correctly, and sometimes replacing the sensor or fixing the vehicle’s computer system.

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How to fix P0061 – learn from mechanics

I looked into P0061 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 P0061

Vehicle information 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L V8

Issue + repair history

  • MIL lamp illuminated with code P0061
  • Replaced Bank 2 Sensor 3 (downstream oxygen sensor)
  • Checked wiring harness for damage or corrosion
  • Code P0061 persisted after sensor replacement

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

  • P0061: HO2S Heater Resistance Bank 2 Sensor 3
  • No other codes reported
  • Live data showed stable oxygen sensor voltage during operation

Mechanic suggestions

  • Check for proper power and ground at the sensor connector
  • Verify continuity of heater circuit in the wiring harness
  • Inspect ECM (Engine Control Module) for faults related to oxygen sensor heater control
  • Test for excessive resistance in the heater circuit using a multimeter

Final fix

  • Discovered damaged wiring at the oxygen sensor connector
  • Repaired wiring, cleared codes, and reset ECM, resolving the issue

Case #2: Ford P0061

Vehicle information 2018 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6 EcoBoost

Issue + repair history

  • MIL lamp illuminated with code P0061
  • Replaced Bank 2 Sensor 3 (downstream oxygen sensor)
  • Inspected wiring harness for damage or corrosion
  • Code P0061 persisted after sensor replacement

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

  • P0061: HO2S Heater Resistance Bank 2 Sensor 3
  • No other codes reported
  • Live data showed stable oxygen sensor voltage during operation

Mechanic suggestions

  • Check for proper power and ground at the sensor connector
  • Verify continuity of heater circuit in the wiring harness
  • Inspect PCM (Powertrain Control Module) for faults related to oxygen sensor heater control
  • Test for excessive resistance in the heater circuit using a multimeter

Final fix

  • Discovered corroded terminal at the PCM connector for Bank 2 Sensor 3
  • Cleaned and repaired terminal, cleared codes, and reset PCM, resolving the issue

Case #3: Dodge P0061

Vehicle information 2016 Dodge Charger 5.7L V8 HEMI

Issue + repair history

  • MIL lamp illuminated with code P0061
  • Replaced Bank 2 Sensor 3 (downstream oxygen sensor)
  • Checked wiring harness for damage or corrosion
  • Code P0061 persisted after sensor replacement

Other OBD2 Codes + Test Results

  • P0061: HO2S Heater Resistance Bank 2 Sensor 3
  • No other codes reported
  • Live data showed stable oxygen sensor voltage during operation

Mechanic suggestions

  • Check for proper power and ground at the sensor connector
  • Verify continuity of heater circuit in the wiring harness
  • Inspect ECM (Engine Control Module) for faults related to oxygen sensor heater control
  • Test for excessive resistance in the heater circuit using a multimeter

Final fix

  • Discovered damaged wiring at the oxygen sensor connector
  • Repaired wiring, cleared codes, and reset ECM, resolving the issue

How to diagnose P0061

I made you an overview of solving this DTC, based on all the advice that was suggested by certified mechanics to address this issue in previously mentioned service cases.

Diagnostic StepExplanation
Check for proper power and groundEnsure the oxygen sensor’s electrical connection has the correct voltage and grounding.
Verify continuity of the heater circuitUse a multimeter to test the electrical pathway of the heater circuit for any breaks or shorts.
Inspect the ECM or PCMLook for any potential issues with the vehicle’s computer that could impact oxygen sensor operation.
Test for excessive resistanceMeasure the electrical resistance in the heater circuit to ensure it falls within the specified range.
diagnostic training

Car Diagnostics Training

  • Car Electrical basics
  • OBD-II scanner basics
  • How to use an OBD reader
  • Introduction to a Bi-directional Scan tool
  • OBD scanner buyer’s guide + discounts

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