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DTC - Diagnostic Trouble Codes information

P1278

Powertrain Codes

P1278 - NISSAN - Air Fuel Ratio (A/F) Sensor 1 Circuit Slow Response

Symptoms

- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light) - Possible rough engine idle

Possible Causes

- Air fuel ratio (A/F) Harness or connectors is open or shorted - Air fuel ratio (A/F) sensor 1 Bank 1 - Air fuel ratio (A/F) sensor 1 heater Bank 1 - Fuel pressure - Fuel injector - Intake air leaks - Exhaust Gas leaks - PVC - Air Flow Meter

When Detected

The response (from RICH to LEAN) of the A/F signal computed by ECM from A/F sensor 1 signal takes more than the specified time.

Description

The A/F sensor is a planar dual-cell limit current sensor. The sensor element of the A/F sensor is the combination of a Nernst concentration cell (sensor cell) with an oxygen-pump cell, which transports ions. It has a heater in the element. The sensor is capable of precise measurement λ= 1, but also in the lean and rich range. Together with its control electronics, the sensor outputs a clear, continuous signal throughout a wide λ range (0.7 The exhaust gas components diffuse through the diffusion gap at the electrode of the oxygen pump and Nernst concentration cell, where they are brought to thermodynamic balance. An electronic circuit controls the pump current through the oxygen-pump cell so that the composition of the exhaust gas in the diffusion gap remains constant at λ = 1. Therefore, the A/F sensor is able to indicate air/fuel ratio by this pumping of current. In addition, a heater is integrated in the sensor to ensure the required operating temperature of 700 - 800 C (1,292 - 1,472 F).