AutoCodes – Honda – P0133 Honda

P0133 Honda Code - Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Malfunction/Slow Response

Quick Answer

The Air/Fuel Ratio (A/F) Sensor (Sensor 1) is responsible for measuring the oxygen concentration in the exhaust gas and providing this information to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Common causes include Faulty Air/Fuel Ratio (A/F) Sensor (Sensor 1), A/F Sensor (Sensor 1) harness is open or shorted, A/F Sensor (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
P0133 Honda indicates Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Malfunction/Slow Response.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Air/Fuel Ratio (A/F) Sensor (Sensor 1), A/F Sensor (Sensor 1) harness is open or shorted, A/F Sensor (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.
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Code Popularity 58,122
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 11, 2023
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Code P0133 Honda Description

The Air/Fuel Ratio (A/F) Sensor (Sensor 1) is responsible for measuring the oxygen concentration in the exhaust gas and providing this information to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM uses this information to adjust the air/fuel ratio in the engine, ensuring that it is at the optimal level for emissions and fuel economy.
The A/F Sensor (Sensor 1) has a linear signal output in relation to the oxygen concentration. This means that the higher the oxygen concentration in the exhaust gas, the higher the voltage output from the sensor. The PCM converts this voltage output to an air/fuel ratio value, which it then uses to adjust the fuel mixture in the engine.
The PCM also compares the response characteristics of the A/F Sensor (Sensor 1) to a set of predetermined values. If the sensor's response is outside of these predetermined values, the PCM will store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).
OBDII Code P0133 Honda - Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Malfunction/Slow Response - AutoCodes.com
P0133 Honda Code - Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 Malfunction/Slow Response

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0133 Honda?

  • Faulty Air/Fuel Ratio (A/F) Sensor (Sensor 1)
  • A/F Sensor (Sensor 1) harness is open or shorted
  • A/F Sensor (Sensor 1) circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0133 Honda?

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 P0133 Honda 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 P0133 Honda code?

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Information for Specific Honda Models

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 P0133 Honda Code

What does the OBDII code P0133 mean for a Honda vehicle?

P0133 indicates that the Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor 1 (upstream oxygen sensor) is responding too slowly to changes in the air/fuel mixture, which can affect engine performance and emissions.

What are the common symptoms of code P0133 in a Honda?

Common symptoms include poor fuel economy, rough idle, reduced engine performance, and the illumination of the Check Engine Light.

What causes the P0133 code to appear in a Honda?

Possible causes include a faulty air/fuel ratio sensor, an exhaust leak near the sensor, wiring or connector issues, or an engine running excessively rich or lean.

Can a dirty air filter cause the P0133 code in a Honda?

While unlikely, a severely clogged air filter can restrict airflow, potentially affecting the air/fuel mixture and triggering this code.

How do you fix the P0133 code on a Honda?

Repairs may involve replacing the air/fuel ratio sensor, fixing exhaust leaks, inspecting and repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or addressing engine performance issues.

Is it safe to drive a Honda with the P0133 code?

Driving with this code is generally safe in the short term, but prolonged driving can lead to poor fuel economy, increased emissions, and potential damage to the catalytic converter.

How much does it typically cost to fix the P0133 code on a Honda?

Repair costs can vary, but replacing the air/fuel ratio sensor typically ranges from $150 to $400, depending on labor rates and parts pricing.

Can a bad catalytic converter cause the P0133 code on a Honda?

A failing catalytic converter is not a direct cause of P0133, but if it affects the air/fuel ratio sensor's readings, it could potentially contribute to the issue.

How do you diagnose the P0133 code on a Honda?

Diagnosis involves using an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspecting the air/fuel ratio sensor and wiring, checking for exhaust leaks, and testing the sensor's response time with a multimeter or scan tool.

Can a software update fix the P0133 code on a Honda?

In rare cases, a software update from the manufacturer may address issues with how the ECU interprets sensor data, but this is less common than hardware repairs.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0133 Honda OBDII Code

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