AutoCodes – Subaru – P0050 Subaru

P0050 Subaru Code - HO2S 21 Heater Control Circuit

Quick Answer

Oxygen Sensors (O2S) or Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) need to reach a minimum operating temperature of 750 degrees F to produce an accurate voltage signal. Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 2 Sensor 1, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 2 Sensor 1 harness is open shorted, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 2 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Moderate - service should be scheduled soon. The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

What it means
P0050 Subaru indicates HO2S 21 Heater Control Circuit.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 2 Sensor 1, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 2 Sensor 1 harness is open shorted, Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 2 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
Moderate - service should be scheduled soon.
Can I drive?
The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 12,817
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 23, 2024
πŸ’¬ Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers β€” it's free!

Code P0050 Subaru Description

Oxygen Sensors (O2S) or Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S) need to reach a minimum operating temperature of 750 degrees F to produce an accurate voltage signal. The faster the heated oxygen sensor reaches that temperature the faster the sensor will start sending an accurate signal to the Engine Control Module (ECM).
In order to achieve the require temperature, a heater element is included inside the heated oxygen sensor. The ECM controls the heated oxygen sensor heater element based on signals from the engine coolant temperature and engine load. The ECM controls the heater element circuit by allowing current flow to ground.
The ECM monitors the voltage signal received through the heater element circuit and determines the state of the circuit by comparing the voltage detected with the factory specifications.
OBDII Code P0050 Subaru - HO2S 21 Heater Control Circuit - AutoCodes.com
P0050 Subaru Code - HO2S 21 Heater Control Circuit

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0050 Subaru?

  • Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 2 Sensor 1
  • Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 2 Sensor 1 harness is open shorted
  • Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 2 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 2 Sensor 1 fuse
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0050 Subaru?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0050 Subaru code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0050 Subaru code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0050 Subaru code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0050 Subaru code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0050 Subaru Code

1. What is OBDII code P0050 for a Subaru?

OBDII code P0050 in a Subaru specifically refers to the Heater Control Circuit malfunction in the HO2S (Heated Oxygen Sensor) 21, which is typically the sensor located after the catalytic converter.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0050 in a Subaru?

Common symptoms of OBDII code P0050 in a Subaru may include poor fuel economy, rough idling, engine misfires, and an illuminated check engine light on the dashboard.

3. What are the potential causes of OBDII code P0050 in a Subaru?

The potential causes of OBDII code P0050 in a Subaru can include a faulty HO2S 21 sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the heater circuit, a blown fuse related to the sensor, or issues with the vehicle's ECM (Engine Control Module).

4. How can I diagnose OBDII code P0050 in a Subaru?

To diagnose OBDII code P0050 in a Subaru, you can use an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific fault code, inspect the wiring and connectors related to the HO2S 21 sensor, check the sensor's resistance, and test the heater circuit for continuity.

5. Can I continue driving my Subaru with OBDII code P0050?

It is not recommended to continue driving your Subaru with OBDII code P0050, as it can lead to potential engine performance issues and increased emissions. It is best to address the underlying problem as soon as possible.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0050 in a Subaru?

To repair OBDII code P0050 in a Subaru, you may need to replace the HO2S 21 sensor, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, replace a blown fuse if necessary, and clear the fault code with an OBDII scanner.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0050 in a Subaru?

If you have the necessary tools, knowledge, and experience working on automotive electrical systems, you may be able to fix OBDII code P0050 in a Subaru yourself. However, if you are unsure, it is recommended to seek professional help.

8. What is the typical cost to repair OBDII code P0050 in a Subaru?

The cost to repair OBDII code P0050 in a Subaru can vary depending on the underlying issue, the labor rates in your area, and whether you choose to fix it yourself or take it to a mechanic. It may range from $100 to $300 or more.

9. Will OBDII code P0050 cause my Subaru to fail an emissions test?

Yes, OBDII code P0050 in a Subaru can potentially cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test, as it indicates a problem with the HO2S 21 sensor's heater circuit, which is crucial for proper emissions control.

10. How often does OBDII code P0050 occur in Subarus?

OBDII code P0050 related to the HO2S 21 sensor heater circuit can occur in Subarus with higher mileage or older models, as sensors and wiring may deteriorate over time. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent this issue.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0050 Subaru OBDII Code

Code P0050 Subaru comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play