What does the P0060 fault code mean?
The P0060 fault code, applicable to all car manufacturers, means “HO2S Heater Resistance (Bank 2, Sensor 2)“.
Background Information: The function of the oxygen sensor is to measure the oxygen content in the engine exhaust to correct the fuel injection amount, thereby achieving the optimal air-fuel ratio for the engine. In OBD fault codes, you will often see references to the number of the bank and the number of the oxygen sensor. Bank 1 refers to the bank containing cylinder 1, and the other bank is Bank 2. Regardless of the bank, the first sensor always refers to the upstream oxygen sensor (before the catalytic converter), and the second sensor always refers to the downstream oxygen sensor (after the catalytic converter). This fault code will appear if the current in the heated oxygen sensor heater control circuit is too low or too high.
Symptoms of the P0060 Error Code (How do I know if there’s a problem?)
The following are the most common signs:
- Engine misfire
- Increased fuel consumption
- Poor throttle response
- Unstable idle
- Failure of emissions test
Main Causes of the P0060 Error Code
- Oxygen sensor failure (Bank 2, Sensor 2)
- Broken or shorted wires
- Damaged or corroded connector
- Improper sensor installation
- Engine control unit problem (rare)
P0060 Error Code in Different Vehicles
P0060 in Audi A4: The error is usually related to unstable operation of the second sensor after the catalytic converter. The problem may be in the sensor itself or in the wiring near the turbocharger.
P0060 in Ford Focus: The problem in these cars is usually a broken wire in the rear oxygen sensor. This is especially true for vehicles with high mileage.
P0060 in Chevrolet Cruze: This error is usually related to connector corrosion or unstable heater wire connection.
P0060 in Toyota Camry: The oxygen sensor itself often fails. There may also be problems with the connector contacts.
P0060 in Honda Accord: The typical cause is a broken or pinched heater wire, especially after poor quality exhaust system repairs.
How to diagnose the P0060 error code?
- Connect an OBD2 scanner and read the error codes.
- Check the wiring and connector of Bank 2 Sensor 2.
- Check the resistance of the sensor heating element (usually 5-14 ohms).
- Ensure the circuit is powered when the ignition switch is on.
- Replace the sensor or repair the wiring if necessary.
| Possible Causes | How to Check? |
|---|---|
| O2 sensor malfunction | Measure resistance with a multimeter |
| Damaged wiring or connector | Visual inspection, disconnect and check |
| Short circuit | Diagnose with a tester, circuit vibration |
| Control unit error | Diagnosis with an OBD2 scanner |
Tools needed: OBD-II scanner, multimeter, jack and stands, sensor removal tool kit
How to fix P0060 error code? (Solution to the problem)
Simple Fixes
- Reset the error and check if it reappears
- Clean the connector and wiring
- Replace damaged fuses
In-depth Diagnosis and Repair Solutions
- Check and replace the oxygen sensor (Bank 2 Sensor 2)
- Repair or replace damaged wires
- Check the ECU and its output to the heating circuit
| Symptoms | Possible Solutions |
|---|---|
| Increased fuel consumption | Check and replace the oxygen sensor |
| Unstable engine operation | Check wiring and heating |
| Check if the engine is not stalling | Reset the code, re-diagnose |
P0060 Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to drive with a P0060 error?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. The P0060 error can lead to increased fuel consumption and potential catalytic converter damage.
Do I need to urgently fix the P0060 error?
It is recommended to clear it as soon as possible. While not critically dangerous, running with this error for a long time can cause other problems.
Is it possible to reset the P0060 error without fixing it?
You can try resetting the fault code with a scanner or disconnecting the battery, but if the root cause of the problem still exists, the error will reappear.
Do I need to replace the oxygen sensor for a P0060 error?
Not necessarily. Sometimes repairing the wiring or cleaning the contacts is enough. But if the heating element is defective, replacement is necessary.
Does the P0060 error affect fuel consumption?
Yes, a malfunctioning oxygen sensor can lead to a rich fuel mixture, resulting in excessive fuel consumption.
Related OBD2 Errors:
P0036 – HO2S Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
P0050 – HO2S Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 1)
P0141 – HO2S Heater Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
Important! While the P0060 error may not directly affect driving, ignoring it can lead to more serious malfunctions and increased fuel consumption. Do not delay diagnosis. The problem may be minor, but prolonged operation can lead to more serious malfunctions and increased fuel consumption.