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P0157

O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 2 Sensor 2)

The engine computer is seeing a very low signal from the rear oxygen sensor on bank 2. This usually means the sensor, its wiring, or the exhaust leak near it has a problem. It can also be caused by a fuel mixture issue or a bad heater circuit in the sensor.

Severity3/5 Moderate
Can I drive?⚠ With caution

The vehicle may still drive, but the problem can affect emissions, fuel economy, and how the engine computer monitors the catalytic converter. If the engine runs poorly, stalls, or other warning lights appear, diagnose it promptly.

DIY
$20–$120
Shop
$120–$450
Difficulty
intermediate

What It Means

P0157 means the powertrain control module has detected a low-voltage condition from the Bank 2 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor circuit. Bank 2 Sensor 2 is the rear O2 sensor on the bank opposite cylinder 1, usually located after the catalytic converter. The code points to an electrical or exhaust-related fault more often than a catalytic converter failure itself.

Symptoms

Common Causes

1. Faulty Bank 2 Sensor 2 oxygen sensorhigh
2. Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring or connector for the rear O2 sensorhigh
3. Exhaust leak near the sensor or before itmedium
4. Failed oxygen sensor heater circuit or power supply issuemedium
5. Rich or lean engine condition affecting sensor readingsmedium
6. Blown fuse, bad relay, or PCM driver issuelow

Related Codes

FAQ

Is P0157 the same as a bad catalytic converter?

Not usually. P0157 points to the rear oxygen sensor circuit on bank 2, not directly to the catalytic converter.

Can a bad oxygen sensor wiring cause P0157?

Yes. Wiring damage, corrosion, or a loose connector is a common cause of this code.

Will replacing the sensor always fix P0157?

No. If the wiring, connector, heater circuit, or exhaust has a problem, the code can come back after sensor replacement.

Can I keep driving with P0157?

Usually yes for short-term use, but it should be diagnosed soon because it can affect emissions and fuel economy.