This is one of the most frequent OBD2 trouble codes. Read the full article below to know what it means, how to fix it, and what other codes may show related to it.
Definition
P0050 is an OBD-II Code that refers to HO2S Heater Control Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 1
Meaning
A P0050 code is a general diagnostic trouble code that occurs when the ECM/PCM detects that the HO2S heater control circuit for Bank 2 Sensor 1 is out of range. The HO2S works by measuring the oxygen content in the exhaust stream. The ECM uses this sensor to help adjust the air/fuel mixture. An HO2S that is out of range can cause drivability problems and set a P0050 code.
Causes
Common causes for this code include:
- Bad Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 2 Sensor 1
- Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 2 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
- Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 2 Sensor 1 harness is open shorted
- Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 2 Sensor 1 fuse
- Faulty ECM (Rare)
Symptoms
The symptoms of a P0050 code are:
- Illuminated Check Engine Light
- The time to achieve a closed cycle is extended.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a P0050 DTC code, a technician would:
- Scan for codes in the ECM and look at the freeze frame data for failure.
- Visually inspect all related wiring and connectors.
- Check for power and ground to the HO2SBank 2 Sensor 1.
- With a multimeter, check the resistance of the Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 2 Sensor 1.
- Compare your findings to the manufacturer’s data.
- If no other codes are present, test the ECM for proper operation.
Common mistakes
The following are some of the most common mistakes that a technician may make when diagnosing a P0050 code:
- Not thoroughly inspecting all the wiring and connectors for damage.
- Not checking the other HO2S circuit codes before replacing the sensor.
- Failing to check for other codes that may be present.
- Forgetting to clear the codes after repairs are made.
How serious is this?
A P0050 code is a low to moderate severity code. The symptoms of this code may not be very noticeable and the vehicle may seem to be running fine. However, if this code is ignored, it can lead to more serious drivability problems.
What repairs can fix the code?
The following are solutions that may fix this problem:
- Replacing the HO2SBank 2 Sensor 1
- Repairing the Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 2 Sensor 1 circuit wiring
- Repair any open or shorted circuits in the HO2S Bank 2 Sensor 1 harness.
- Clearing the Code and Preventing It from Returning
- Replacing the ECM (Rare)
Related codes
A P0050 is related to and may be accompanied by the following codes:
P0051 – HO2S Heater Control Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 2
P0153 – HO2S Slow Response Bank 2 Sensor 1
U3118 - Unknown Controller DTC
Conclusion
In conclusion, the P0050 code is a diagnostic trouble code that refers to a problem with the HO2S heater control circuit Bank 2 Sensor 1. This code is caused by a variety of factors, including a bad HO2S, poor electrical connection, or an open or shorted circuit in the HO2S harness. The most common way to fix this problem is to replace the HO2SBank 2 Sensor 1. However, if other codes are present, they should be diagnosed and repaired first. Be sure to clear the codes after repairs are made.