Easy one-page printout for the garage or repair shop
This summary uses the existing diagnostic information shown in full below.
The car's computer is saying that one of the sensors in the exhaust system is not getting enough power. This sensor helps the car know how much fuel to use.
The O2 sensor measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases. If the sensor's voltage is too low, it means the sensor might not be working properly.
The P0163 code indicates that the oxygen sensor located in Bank 2, Sensor 3 is reporting a voltage that is lower than the expected range. This sensor is responsible for monitoring the efficiency of the catalytic converter by measuring the oxygen level in the exhaust gases.
• Check Engine Light is on
• Poor fuel economy
• Failed emissions test
• Faulty O2 sensor
• Wiring issues or poor connections
• Exhaust leaks
O2 Sensor: A device that measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases.
Bank 2: The side of the engine opposite to Bank 1, usually the side without cylinder 1.
• Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the code
• Inspect the wiring and connections to the O2 sensor
• Check for exhaust leaks near the sensor
• Replace the faulty O2 sensor
• Repair or replace damaged wiring
• Fix any exhaust leaks
• OBD-II scanner
• Multimeter
• Wrench set
$150 - $300
Moderate
• Toyota Camry
• Ford F-150
• Honda Accord
• Regularly inspect and maintain exhaust system
• Ensure proper sensor installation
• Use high-quality fuel
Sensor Issue
• Have the car inspected by a professional
• Avoid driving long distances until fixed
Check with the vehicle manufacturer for specific warranty coverage on emissions-related components.
This code has been commonly reported in vehicles with high mileage or those that have not maintained their exhaust systems.
Moderate – Should be addressed soon to avoid further issues.
Driving with a malfunctioning O2 sensor can lead to increased emissions and is not environmentally friendly.
• Engine at operating temperature
• Vehicle in closed-loop operation
The O2 sensor is located in the exhaust system, typically after the catalytic converter on Bank 2.
Q: Can I drive my car with a P0163 code?
A: It's possible to drive for a short period, but it's not recommended as it can lead to poor fuel economy and increased emissions.
Q: How can I prevent O2 sensor issues?
A: Regular vehicle maintenance and using high-quality fuel can help prevent sensor issues.
Budget · Enhanced code reader
A wired color-screen reader with readiness hotkeys, live data, code definitions, and data logging.
Good for emissions-related codes because it exposes readiness monitors and live powertrain data.
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Specialty · Smoke machine
Helpful for finding EVAP and vacuum leaks that are hard to see with visual inspection alone.
Helpful for tracking down EVAP and vacuum leaks that can trigger emissions faults.
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Specialty · O2 sensor socket
Helpful when the code points toward exhaust or oxygen-sensor work and space is tight.
Useful when the diagnosis points toward oxygen-sensor removal or replacement.
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Fitment Required · Vehicle-fitment part
Relevant when the code or supporting diagnostics point toward upstream or downstream oxygen-sensor faults.
This code family often involves upstream or downstream oxygen-sensor diagnosis.
Verify exact sensor position and vehicle fitment before buying.
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Fitment Required · Vehicle-fitment part
Relevant when catalyst-efficiency or emissions faults persist after proper diagnosis.
Catalyst-efficiency faults sometimes point toward converter problems after proper testing.
Catalytic converters are highly vehicle-specific and should not be purchased by code alone.
View options on AmazonThese parts may be related to this fault category, but a code by itself does not confirm exact fitment or guarantee that replacing a part will solve the problem.