P0060
UniversalHO2S Heater Resistance (Bank 2, Sensor 2)
The oxygen sensor heater warms the sensor so it can begin providing useful readings sooner. This code means the vehicle’s control system detected a resistance issue in the heater circuit for Bank 2, Sensor 2. That sensor is generally downstream of the catalytic converter, but its exact location depends on the vehicle. The fault may delay sensor operation or emissions monitoring; the code alone does not prove the sensor itself has failed.
⚠️ Before You Begin (Safety First)
This fault alone usually does not require stopping immediately. Arrange diagnosis, particularly if the check-engine light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or you notice overheating, fuel smell, or unusual exhaust fumes; stop driving and seek assistance if those symptoms occur. A flashing check-engine light or severe running problem can indicate a more urgent fault.
Common Symptoms
- The check-engine light may be on.
- There may be no noticeable change in how the vehicle drives.
- The sensor may take longer to warm up, potentially delaying emissions monitoring or readiness checks.
- Emissions may be affected if the sensor does not become operational as intended.
Common Causes
- The oxygen sensor’s heater element may have an electrical fault.
- Wiring or a connector in the heater circuit may be damaged, loose, or corroded.
- A heater circuit power supply, ground, or control issue may be present.
- A related fuse or circuit connection may be faulty, depending on the vehicle.
Diagnostic Steps
- With the vehicle safely parked and the ignition off, consult vehicle-specific information to identify the correct sensor and circuit; bank and sensor locations vary by engine.
- Look for visible damage, loose connections, or corrosion at the sensor connector and accessible wiring. Avoid touching hot exhaust components.
- If a connector is disconnected for inspection, follow the vehicle’s service instructions and reconnect it securely; do not pull on the wires.
- Record other diagnostic codes and symptoms before clearing anything, since related faults can help guide diagnosis.
- If visual checks do not reveal the problem, have the heater circuit tested against vehicle-specific specifications rather than replacing a part based on this code alone.
When to Call a Professional
A technician can inspect the sensor connector and wiring, review scan data, and test the heater circuit and its power, ground, and control using vehicle-specific service information. Resistance readings and circuit checks should be compared with the specifications for the exact vehicle. Confirm the circuit fault before replacing the sensor; wiring, connectors, or circuit controls can also be involved.
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Commonly Asked Questions
Does P0060 prove that the oxygen sensor needs replacement?
No. It identifies a resistance issue in the heater circuit for Bank 2, Sensor 2. The sensor heater may be faulty, but wiring, connections, power, ground, or circuit control can also be involved.
What does Sensor 2 mean here?
Sensor 2 generally refers to the oxygen sensor downstream of the catalytic converter on the specified bank. Exact placement depends on the vehicle.
Can I keep driving with this code?
If the vehicle runs normally and there are no other warning signs, this code alone is usually not an immediate stop-driving condition. Get it diagnosed, and stop if the check-engine light flashes or serious symptoms develop.
Why might there be no noticeable symptoms?
A heater-circuit fault can delay sensor warm-up without causing an obvious change in engine operation. The vehicle may still illuminate the check-engine light or have emissions-monitoring effects.
Related Diagnostic Video
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