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
This code shows that the computer in the vehicle is detecting an issue with the secondary air injection system. The issue is caused by a failure in the sensor heater circuit in bank one, sensor two. The vehicle will produce an increased amount of emissions because the purpose of this heater is to pump air into the exhaust.
Meaning
P0414 is the OBD-II generic code that verifies that the engine control module (ECM) has performed all of the proper tests on the O2 sensor unit. It detects any problems with the bank one, sensor two O2 sensor heater circuit. The P0414 should be stored in the vehicle’s computer, and it will alert you if there’s any problems with the secondary air system.
Causes
There are a few reasons that this code could appear, and it should be noted that this code is more frequent in cold weather. The ECM performs tests on the O2 sensor heater circuit when it initially starts up, and detects a circuit that is open or short. It can also detect a current draw that is too high in the O2 bank one sensor two heater circuit.
It can be caused by a failed air pump, which can be detected by the engine running rough, a reduction in horsepower and the check engine light.
Moisture could be getting let into the air pump if a check valve fails, which can freeze if the weather is too cold.
The air bypass solenoid wiring harness could be open or short and there could be damage to the connection located there. Damage to the air injection hose could also trigger code P0414.
Symptoms
Fortunately, the few symptoms of the P0414 code are noticeable. The check engine light will be on, and there will be atypical noise coming from the secondary air injection system. This code also indicates that potential engine damage has occurred, so you may notice engine hesitation and stalling. The engine being stuck in an open loop can cause it to run too rich. It also may misfire, because the engine is running rough and damaging the spark plugs.
Diagnosis
To verify that the problem is occurring, check the electrical connections on the O2 bank one, sensor two, or the wire harness.. Scan all of the documents and codes in the freeze frame data, then check for failure by clearing the codes.
You will then need to keep an eye on the data from the O2 to see if bank one, sensor two, has a heater circuit that is working properly. Ensure that the O2 sensor heater circuit is capable of power, and check that it’s applying the resistance that is necessary to meet specifications.
Follow all of the manufacturer’s tests that will specifically pinpoint the issue for further diagnosis.
Common mistakes
There are several common mistakes that people make when attempting to diagnose a P0414 code. A common mistake is to replace the air pump without verifying that the problem could be caused by damage to the wiring harness and its connections.
First check to see if any water has made contact with the O2 sensor through the water entry point. These leaks could cause sensor shorts and heighten the problem. Then, check for any oil or contaminant leaks caused by a leaking engine in the O2 sensor.
After a replacement, scan the new O2 sensor to check that the heater circuit is operating properly. Break the old sensor or clog the sensor holes to check if the damage was caused by a defective catalyst.
How serious is this?
The P0141 code is incredibly serious, and should be dealt with as soon as possible. It will affect how driveable the vehicle is, as well as your overall safety while on the road. On bank one of the engine, the sensor that is located behind the catalyst is what this code is for. These are the feedback systems that the ECM needs to control the fuel and the injectors.
You may also find that until the system is repaired or starts working again, the ECM will stay in an open loop. An engine that is stuck in an open loop will run richer and will burn extra fuel and carbon to start up as a result.
What repairs can fix the code?
There are several effective methods of repairing the P0414 code. Clearing the codes that are faulty and performing a road test is a way that you can attempt to verify that a failure has occurred. You may then need to replace the O2 sensor for bank one, sensor two, as well as the fuse to the heater circuit for the O2 sensor heater circuit. You may also need to repair or replace the wiring or connection to the O2 sensor for bank one, sensor two.
Related codes
None listed.
Conclusion
The P0414 code should be dealt with immediately after diagnosis to prevent further damage to the vehicle. Use the available methods of diagnosis and repairs to rectify any damage caused by P0414.
DOWNLOAD
A PDF VERSION OF THIS ARTICLE FOR LATER
