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P0135

Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 1)

The engine computer has found a problem in the heater circuit for the upstream oxygen sensor on bank 1. That sensor may not warm up fast enough, so the engine may run poorly until it reaches normal temperature. The issue is usually an electrical problem, a bad sensor heater, or a wiring fault.

Severity3/5 Moderate
Can I drive?⚠ With caution

You can usually drive short distances, but fuel economy, emissions, and drivability may be affected. Have it checked soon, especially if the engine runs rough, idles badly, or the check engine light is flashing.

DIY
$20–$120
Shop
$120–$350
Difficulty
intermediate

What It Means

P0135 means the PCM detected an open, short, or performance fault in the heater circuit of the upstream oxygen sensor, typically Bank 1 Sensor 1. This heater helps the sensor reach operating temperature quickly so the PCM can control fuel mixture in closed loop. If the heater circuit fails, the sensor response can be delayed and the PCM may store the code and adjust fuel delivery incorrectly.

Symptoms

Common Causes

1. Defective oxygen sensor or air-fuel ratio sensor heater circuit on Bank 1 Sensor 1high
2. Damaged sensor wiring, connector corrosion, or poor terminal contacthigh
3. Blown fuse, bad relay, or lost power/ground to the heater circuitmedium
4. Exhaust system leak affecting sensor readingsmedium
5. Intake air system leak causing incorrect mixture readingsmedium
6. Low fuel pressure causing abnormal fuel trim and sensor activitylow
7. Defective engine coolant temperature sensor affecting warm-up strategylow
8. PCM software needs an updatelow
9. Defective PCMlow

Related Codes

FAQ

What does P0135 mean?

It means the heater circuit for the upstream oxygen sensor on Bank 1 is not working correctly.

Is P0135 caused by the oxygen sensor itself?

Often yes, but wiring, connectors, fuses, relays, or power and ground problems are also common.

Can a bad oxygen sensor heater cause poor fuel economy?

Yes. If the sensor heats slowly or not at all, the engine may stay in open loop longer and use more fuel.

Should I replace the sensor first?

Not always. Check the fuse, wiring, connector, and power supply first because they are common causes and cheaper to fix.