What Does the P0132 Code Mean?
When the powertrain control module (PCM) registers the P0132 trouble code, it indicates that some problem with the O2 oxygen sensor exists. To be more specific, when the PCM monitors that the O2 oxygen sensor’s voltage is above 450 millivolts for more than twenty seconds, the P0132 trouble code is triggered.
Talking about the O2 oxygen sensor, its primary task is to monitor the amount of oxygen content in the exhaust gasses once these gasses pass through the combustion process. This information is necessary to ensure optimal engine performance and keep the pollution as low as possible. Any issue with the O2 oxygen sensor disrupts the performance of the vehicle and would trigger the P0132 trouble code.
P0132 Symptoms
Although the P0132 trouble code requires serious attention, sometimes the drivers do not experience any symptoms when the code is triggered. However, when the problem is ignored for some time, these are some common symptoms the driver will experience:
- Check engine light illuminates
- Increased fuel consumption
- Drop in engine performance
- Problem with gear shifting
- Engine idling
- Black smoke coming out of the exhaust pipe
Possible Causes
Here are some of the possible causes which trigger the P0132 trouble code:
- Damaged O2 oxygen sensor
- Damaged mass airflow sensor
- Increased fuel pressure
- Malfunctioning engine coolant temperature sensor
- Defective PCM
- PCM needs a software update
- Defective wiring
Possible Solutions
If you are sure that the P0132 trouble code exists, here are some steps you can take to fix the problem. Before replacing, we suggest that you clean and service the oxygen sensor and inspect the intake manifold as well.
- Replace the O2 oxygen sensor
- Replace the mass air flow sensor
- Troubleshoot fuel pressure valve
- Replace the engine coolant temperature sensor
- Repair/replace the defective PCM
- Fix the broken wire connections
How to Diagnose the P0132 Code?
Attach the Car Battery Charger
It is important to have the car battery charger attached when diagnosing the P0132 code. The car battery charger ensures that the battery charge does not deplete while carrying on the diagnostic process.
It is important to keep the battery charge at optimal level else low voltage can generate more trouble codes.
Connect the OBD2 Scanner
It is important to have the OBD2 scanner while diagnosing the P0132 trouble code. The OBD2 scanner can be used to read and monitor the trouble codes as well as record live data.
There are two types of the OBD2 scanner; a regular code reader and an advanced scanner. The latter is expensive but offers exceptional features to fix trouble codes.
Check Oxygen Sensor Wiring Harness
Before replacing the oxygen sensor, make sure you visually inspect the wiring harness around it. Sometimes due to faulty or broken wire connections, the trouble code generates and it disappears easily when you fix the connections.
Check the O2 Oxygen Sensor Voltage
Using a digital voltmeter check the output voltage at the O2 oxygen sensor. If the sensor’s voltage signal is between 100 mV-900 mV (0.10 to 0.90V), it indicates that the O2 oxygen sensor is working fine. If the reading is out of the specified range, then the sensor is defective.
Check for Ground Wiring
A lot of mechanics have reported that the P0132 code exists due to a bad ground wiring. If that is the case, you can check the ground voltage by connecting one end of the jumper cable to ground and another end to the negative terminal of the battery. Notice the reading after connecting the jumper wire and monitor if the reading improves. If it does, you probably have a ground problem.
How to Replace the O2 Oxygen Sensor?
Replacing the O2 oxygen sensor can be a difficult task but if you love digging into your vehicle’s components, you can easily replace the O2 oxygen sensor yourself.
Step 1: Turn on the engine
Before replacing the engine, it is a good idea to turn on the engine and leave it running for a couple of minutes.
Step 2: Disconnect the Battery’s negative terminal
Turn off the engine and remove the negative terminal of the battery to ensure that you stay protected from electric shocks.
Step 3: Locate the O2 Oxygen Sensor
Next, find the O2 oxygen sensor which can be found located before the catalytic converter. It looks similar to a spark plug. If you have difficulty locating it, refer to your vehicle’s manual.
Step 4: Remove the electrical connection
Remove the electrical connector on the oxygen sensor. You would need a screwdriver to push in the tab, then gently pull the connector.
Step 5: Remove the sensor
Remove the sensor by gently unscrewing it using a socket wrench.
Step 6: Install new sensor
Install the new sensor and connect the electrical connection. Then re-connect the negative terminal of the battery and start the engine. Reset the trouble code using the OBD2 scanner and hopefully, it will not return.
O2 Oxygen Sensor Replacement Cost
The average cost to the replace the O2 oxygen sensor comes around $250. The sensor itself cost about $117 whereas the labor cost is approximately $150. The pricing may vary depending on the car model and make.
Should I Repair the P0132 Trouble Code Right Away?
The P0132 trouble code does not result in a serious drivability issue but it should not be ignored for too long as it reduces the vehicle’s fuel consumption and your vehicle will start emitting harmful pollutants.
Recommended Tools to Fix P0132 Code
• Car battery charger
• Digital multimeter to test voltage and resistance readings
• OBD2 scanner to scan the trouble code
• Electric cleaner to clean to service the dirty sensor
Further Questions?
If you have any further questions related to the P0132 code, comment below to explain your query and we will help you solve the problem right away. Do not forget to mention details about your vehicle model and make so that we can provide a specific solution based on the provided details.
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