P0137 Code: Oxygen Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1, Sensor 2)

Have you ever felt something wrong with your vehicle’s engine? Perhaps you’ve noticed a drop in fuel efficiency, experienced rough idling, or even witnessed a pesky check engine light illuminating your dashboard. If you’ve encountered the P0137 code during a diagnostic scan, you may be left scratching your head and wondering what it means and how to fix it.

Well, fear not, fellow car enthusiast!

In this blog post, we’ll embark on a journey to unravel the mysteries of the P0137 code and shed light on its meaning, symptoms, diagnosis, and repair options. At the heart of this enigma lies the oxygen sensor, a critical component that is vital in optimizing your engine’s performance.

What does a P0137 code mean?

A P0137 code means that the oxygen sensor is reporting a low voltage. The code is set when the voltage is below .4 volts and cleared when the voltage is above .8 volts.

If you’re getting this P0137 code, there are a few things to check:

Make sure your battery connections are tight and clean
Check if there’s any corrosion on your terminals or cables (a wire brush will do)

What are the symptoms of a P0137 code?

A faulty oxygen sensor or wiring harness.
A vacuum leak causing air to bypass the sensor would result in an incorrect reading from it.

What are the common causes of the P0137 code?

Faulty Oxygen Sensor: The Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor may be defective.

Wiring Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring in the oxygen sensor circuit.

Faulty Connector: Poor connection or corrosion in the sensor’s electrical connector.

Exhaust Leaks: Leaks near the sensor can affect its readings.

Can a dirty or failing catalytic converter cause P0137?

While a failing catalytic converter can potentially affect sensor readings, the P0137 code is more directly related to the oxygen sensor itself. It’s advisable to inspect both the sensor and the converter if issues are suspected.

How do I diagnose and troubleshoot the P0137 code?

Inspect Oxygen Sensor: Examine the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor for physical damage or contamination.

Check Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring and connectors in the oxygen sensor circuit for damage, corrosion, or poor connections.

Use a Scan Tool: Clear the code with an OBD-II scan tool and monitor live data to observe the oxygen sensor’s voltage readings.

How does a mechanic diagnose P0137?

A mechanic will check the oxygen sensor for voltage and resistance. If there’s no voltage, it could mean that the wiring is faulty or broken, so they’ll look into that first. If there’s still no signal after checking all these areas, they’ll check other components, like your exhaust system, for leaks and your fuel pressure regulator (FPR). If those checks come back OK, they might want to take a closer look at your injectors or even replace them entirely if they think this caused your P0137 code.

Can I drive with a P0137 code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable with the P0137 code, it’s not advisable in the long term. Ignoring the issue may lead to decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Address the problem promptly.

What is the function of Bank 1, Sensor 2 in the exhaust system?

Bank 1 refers to the side of the engine where the number 1 cylinder is located. Sensor 2 is the downstream oxygen sensor after the catalytic converter. Its primary function is to monitor the efficiency of the catalytic converter and provide feedback to the Engine Control Module (ECM) for fuel control.

What repairs can fix a P0137 code?

The most common repairs for a P0137 code are replacing the oxygen sensor and checking for wiring issues. The other possible causes of this code include vacuum leaks, faulty sensors, or contaminated fuel.

If you’re getting a low voltage reading from your bank 1 oxygen sensor (sensor 2), it may be time to replace it with an updated part. Ensure you’re using a genuine replacement part from your local auto parts store or dealership so your car will run smoothly again.

Here’s a video on how to fix P0137 engine code below.