AutoCodesFord – P0037 Ford

P0037 Ford Code - HO2S Heater Control Circuit Low Bank 1 Sensor 2

Quick Answer

The HO2S detects the presence of oxygen in the exhaust and produces a variable voltage according to the amount of oxygen detected. Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 (HO2S12), Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit open shorted to ground, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0037 Ford indicates HO2S Heater Control Circuit Low Bank 1 Sensor 2.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 (HO2S12), Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit open shorted to ground, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code Popularity 389
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 01, 2023
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Code P0037 Ford Description

The HO2S detects the presence of oxygen in the exhaust and produces a variable voltage according to the amount of oxygen detected. A high concentration of oxygen (lean air to fuel ratio) in the exhaust produces a voltage signal of less than 0.4 volt. A low concentration of oxygen (rich air to fuel ratio) produces a voltage signal greater than 0.6 volt. The HO2S provides feedback to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) indicating air to fuel ratio in order to achieve a near stoichiometric air to fuel ratio of 14.7 to 1 (9 to 1 E100) during closed loop engine operation.
When the oxygen sensor is cold, disconnected, or on initial start-up, the voltage may read between 1.5 to 1.7 volts. The oxygen sensor voltage will decrease to the normal operating range of 0.0 to 1.1 volts during warm, stabilized engine running conditions.
The HO2S heater is embedded with a sensing element. The heating element heats the sensor to a temperature of 800°C (1,472°F). At approximately 300°C (572°F) the engine enters closed loop operation. The heater allows the engine to enter closed loop operation sooner.
The PCM controls the Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1, Sensor 2 (HO2S12) heater ON and OFF duty cycle to maintain a calibrated temperature. This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is set when the sensor does not warm up to the required temperature in a calibrated amount of time. This DTC is also set when the PCM is not able to maintain the required temperature after the sensor is warmed.
OBDII Code P0037 Ford - HO2S Heater Control Circuit Low Bank 1 Sensor 2 - AutoCodes.com
P0037 Ford Code - HO2S Heater Control Circuit Low Bank 1 Sensor 2

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0037 Ford?

  • Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 (HO2S12)
  • Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit open shorted to ground
  • Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0037 Ford?

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.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0037 Ford 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.

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Information for Specific Ford 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 P0037 Ford Code

What does the OBDII code P0037 mean on a Ford vehicle?

P0037 indicates a problem with the Heater Control Circuit for the oxygen sensor (HO2S) on Bank 1, Sensor 2, where the circuit voltage is lower than expected.

What are the symptoms of code P0037 in a Ford?

Common symptoms include the check engine light turning on, reduced fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and possible failure to pass an emissions test.

What causes the P0037 code to appear?

Potential causes include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM), or a blown fuse.

Which oxygen sensor does P0037 refer to?

The code refers to the downstream oxygen sensor (Sensor 2) located on Bank 1, which is the side of the engine with cylinder 1.

Can I drive my Ford with the P0037 code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, it’s not recommended as it can lead to higher emissions and reduced fuel efficiency, and may cause further damage over time.

How do I diagnose the P0037 code on my Ford?

Start by checking the wiring and connectors for the Bank 1, Sensor 2 oxygen sensor. Use a multimeter to test the sensor’s heater circuit resistance and ensure proper voltage supply.

How do I fix code P0037 on a Ford?

Common fixes include replacing the faulty oxygen sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, and checking or replacing related fuses.

How much does it cost to repair the P0037 code?

The cost can vary, but oxygen sensor replacement typically ranges from $100 to $300, depending on labor rates and parts pricing.

Can a bad oxygen sensor cause other issues in my Ford?

Yes, a malfunctioning oxygen sensor can lead to poor fuel economy, increased emissions, and potential damage to the catalytic converter if not addressed.

How can I prevent the P0037 code from happening again?

Regular maintenance, including inspecting and replacing oxygen sensors as needed, checking wiring for damage, and ensuring good electrical connections, can help prevent this code.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0037 Ford OBDII Code

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