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P0140

O2 Sensor No Activity Detected Bank 1 Sensor 2

The engine computer is not seeing the rear oxygen sensor on Bank 1 change as expected. This usually means the sensor, wiring, or exhaust conditions are preventing a normal signal. It can also be caused by an exhaust leak or fuel mixture problem.

Severity2/5 Low to Moderate
Can I drive?⚠ With caution

The vehicle is usually drivable, but the problem should be diagnosed soon. Fuel economy may drop and the emissions system may not work correctly.

DIY
$20–$150
Shop
$150–$450
Difficulty
intermediate

What It Means

P0140 means the PCM detected little or no switching activity from the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor. This is the downstream O2 sensor, usually located after the catalytic converter on the bank that contains cylinder 1. The code points to a sensor signal problem, wiring fault, exhaust leak, or less commonly a catalytic converter or engine operating issue affecting the signal.

Symptoms

Common Causes

1. Failed Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensorhigh
2. Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring/connectors at the sensorhigh
3. Blown fuse, open circuit, or heater circuit problem for the O2 sensormedium
4. Exhaust leak near the sensor or upstream of the sensormedium
5. Catalytic converter issue affecting sensor readingsmedium
6. Engine running too rich or too lean due to other faultslow
7. PCM driver or software issuelow

Related Codes

FAQ

What sensor is P0140 referring to?

It refers to Bank 1 Sensor 2, the downstream oxygen sensor located after the catalytic converter on the bank with cylinder 1.

Can a bad catalytic converter cause P0140?

Yes, but it is less common than a failed sensor or wiring issue. Exhaust leaks and sensor faults should be checked first.

Will P0140 cause poor fuel economy?

It can, but not always. The downstream sensor mainly monitors emissions performance, so many vehicles show little drivability change.

Should I replace the O2 sensor first?

Not always. Inspect wiring, connectors, and exhaust leaks first because those problems are common and can cause the same code.