What Does P0167 Mean?
The ECM has determined that the bank 2 sensor 3 oxygen sensor is showing no activity, specifically indicating the sensor output is fixed and not responding to exhaust gas changes. This code is functionally similar to P0166 and in many ECM calibrations is used interchangeably or as a more specific variant. The downstream sensor 3 is used for monitoring secondary catalytic converter performance. The driver will see a check engine light but is unlikely to notice any driveability change.
Common Causes
45%
Internally failed O2 sensor with a dead sensing element
25%
Disconnected, broken, or corroded O2 sensor connector or wiring
15%
Failed O2 sensor heater preventing the sensor from activating
10%
Sensor contamination from engine oil, coolant, or silicone sealant
5%
ECM internal fault on the sensor input channel
Diagnostic Steps
1
Check live data for bank 2 sensor 3 — confirm voltage is flat/unchanging. Compare to bank 1 sensor 3 (if equipped) to establish a baseline of normal behavior.
2
Wiggle-test the sensor connector and wiring while monitoring live data. Any intermittent voltage jump indicates a connection problem.
3
Unplug the sensor and measure heater resistance (spec: 4–15 ohms typically). Also measure signal circuit continuity to ECM. Open readings in either circuit confirm the failure point.
4
If the sensor heater and wiring test good, remove the sensor and visually inspect the tip. A glassy or white-coated tip indicates contamination; a darkened or sooty tip indicates carbon fouling.
5
Verify no other O2 sensor codes are present on the same bank. Multiple sensor failures on the same bank may indicate a deeper exhaust or engine issue.
Estimated Repair Cost
$150 - $400
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The ECM has determined that the bank 2 sensor 3 oxygen sensor is showing no activity, specifically indicating the sensor output is fixed and not responding to exhaust gas changes. This code is functionally similar to P0166 and in many ECM calibrations is used interchangeably or as a more specific va...
The most common cause of P0167 (O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 2 Sensor 3)) is: Internally failed O2 sensor with a dead sensing element
Typical repair costs for P0167 range from $150 to $400, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
Safe to continue driving. Sensor 3 is purely for emissions monitoring and does not affect fuel control. The vehicle will not pass an emissions test and catalytic converter monitoring is impaired.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P0167 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Fuel System / Emissions
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
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