What does the P0057 trouble code mean?
The P0057 trouble code, applicable to all car manufacturers, means “HO2S Heater Control Circuit Low (Bank 2, Sensor 2)“.
Background Information: The oxygen sensor measures the oxygen content in the engine exhaust to adjust the fuel injection amount, thereby achieving the optimal air-fuel ratio for the engine. In OBD trouble codes, you will often see references to the number of the oxygen sensor in a particular bank. 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). The electronic control unit (ECU) maintains the oxygen sensor temperature at 780°C by controlling the on/off state of the oxygen sensor heater. This trouble code will appear if the heater control circuit voltage is below the calibrated minimum value.
Symptoms of the P0057 Error Code
- Engine malfunction indicator light illuminated
- Increased fuel consumption
- Unstable engine idle
- Increased emissions
- Problems passing technical inspections
Main Causes of the P0057 Error Code
- Burnt-out oxygen sensor heating element
- Damage to the heater control circuit wiring or connector
- Contact corrosion
- Grounding fault
- Heater circuit relay or fuse failure
- Electronic control unit (ECU) failure
P0057 Error Code in Different Vehicles
Toyota P0057: This error is common in Camry, Corolla, and RAV4 models. It is usually related to a fault in the oxygen sensor or its heater.
Chevrolet P0057: In Cruze, Malibu, and Silverado models, this error can be caused by either a sensor malfunction or a problem in the heater power circuit.
Ford P0057: Focus, Fusion, and Escape models often experience this error due to circuit grounding faults or relay failures.
Volkswagen P0057: In Passat, Golf, and Jetta models, the error may be due to corrosion of the sensor connector contacts or damaged wiring.
Nissan P0057: In Altima, Maxima, and Rogue models, the error is usually caused by aging oxygen sensors and decreased heater efficiency.
How to diagnose the P0057 error code?
Step 1: Connect the OBD2 scanner and read the error codes.
Step 2: Clear the fault codes and check if the error reappears after a short drive.
Step 3: Visually inspect the wiring and connector of the oxygen sensor (Bank 2 Sensor 2).
Step 4: Measure the resistance of the sensor heating element with a multimeter (usually 4-10 ohms).
Step 5: Check the voltage of the heater power circuit when the ignition is on.
Possible Causes and Diagnostic Methods
| Possible Cause | How to Check？ |
|---|---|
| Heating element failure | Check the resistance between the sensor terminals |
| Damaged wiring | Perform a visual inspection for wear and tear |
| Corroded connector | Disconnect and check for oxidation |
| Ground fault | Use a multimeter to check the circuit |
| Relay or fuse failure | Check the relay/fuse in the mounting block |
| ECM module failure | Diagnose with a scanner |
Tools needed: OBD2 scanner, digital multimeter, a set of wrenches and screwdrivers, vehicle wiring diagram
How to fix P0057 error code? (Solutions to the problem)
Simple fixes
- Clear the error code and retest
- Replace blown fuses
- Tighten or clean the sensor connector
In-depth diagnostic and repair solutions
- Replace the oxygen sensor (if the resistance value is outside the normal range)
- Repair or replace damaged wiring
- Replace the faulty heater circuit relay
- Diagnose and repair the ECM unit (in rare cases)
Troubleshooting by symptoms
| Symptom | Possible Solution |
|---|---|
| Check if the engine starts | Check and replace the HO2 sensor |
| Increased fuel consumption | Diagnose and replace the faulty sensor |
| Decreased acceleration | Check and restore the heater circuit |
| Error appears immediately after starting | Check the relay, fuse, and heater circuit |
P0057 Error Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drive with a P0057 error code?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. This error indicates a malfunction in the emission control system, which can lead to increased fuel consumption and decreased engine efficiency.
How can I fix the P0057 error myself?
Damaged wiring, fuses, or the oxygen sensor itself can be checked and replaced. It’s also worthwhile to clean the contacts and check the heater resistance.
Do I need to replace the oxygen sensor to fix the P0057 error?
Not necessarily. First, you should diagnose the problem: it’s likely an issue with the wiring or power circuit. The sensor only needs to be replaced if the heater itself is faulty.
Does error P0057 affect fuel consumption?
Yes, a faulty oxygen sensor heater can lead to incorrect fuel mixture adjustments, thus increasing fuel consumption.
Related OBD2 errors:
P0056 – HO2S Heater Control Circuit (Bank 2, Sensor 2)
P0138 – O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1, Sensor 2)
P0141 – O2 Sensor Heater Circuit (Bank 1, Sensor 2)
Important! Although error P0057 rarely causes a critical failure, it may indicate a malfunction in the emission control system and should be corrected as soon as possible. If this error occurs, you shouldn’t simply replace the sensor—it’s crucial to carefully inspect the wiring, connectors, and power circuit. A thorough diagnosis will prevent the error from recurring and ensure stable engine operation.