DT Codes . com
DTC - Diagnostic Trouble Codes information

P0142

Powertrain Codes

P0142 - VOLKSWAGEN - O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction Bank 1 Sensor 3

Symptoms

- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light) - High Fuel Consumption - Excessive Smoke from Exhaust

Possible Causes

- Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted - Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3 circuit poor electrical connection - Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3

Tech Notes

Replacing the O2 Sensor 3 usually takes care of the problem

Description

The rear heated oxygen sensor (or sensor 3 for some vehicles), after three way catalyst (manifold), monitors the oxygen level in the exhaust gas on each bank. Even if switching characteristics of the heated oxygen sensor 1 are shifted, the air-fuel ratio is controlled to stoichiometric, by the signal from the heated oxygen sensor 3. This sensor is made of ceramic zirconia. The zirconia generates voltage from approximately 1V in richer conditions to 0V in leaner conditions. Under normal conditions the heated oxygen sensor 3 is not used for engine control operation.