AutoCodesHonda – P0139 Honda

P0139 Honda Code - Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Slow Response

Quick Answer

The Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor (Secondary HO2S (Sensor 2)) detects the oxygen content in the exhaust gas downstream of the three-way catalytic converter (TWC) during stoichiometric air/fuel ratio feedback control. Common causes include Faulty Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2, Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted, Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 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
P0139 Honda indicates Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Slow Response.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2, Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted, Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 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 87,487
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 14, 2023
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Code P0139 Honda Description

The Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor (Secondary HO2S (Sensor 2)) detects the oxygen content in the exhaust gas downstream of the three-way catalytic converter (TWC) during stoichiometric air/fuel ratio feedback control. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls the air/fuel ratio with the Air/Fuel Ratio (A/F) Sensor (Sensor 1) output voltage to optimize the TWC's efficiency. When the Secondary HO2S (Sensor 2) does not change during lean air/fuel ratio when the throttle is closed, after the full current is applied to the Secondary HO2S (Sensor 2) heater, and output remains within the specified range continuously, the PCM detects a malfunction and stores a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).
OBDII Code P0139 Honda - Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Slow Response - AutoCodes.com
P0139 Honda Code - Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 Slow Response

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0139 Honda?

  • Faulty Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2
  • Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted
  • Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Exhaust system failure (exhaust gas leak)

How to Fix the DTC P0139 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 P0139 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 P0139 Honda code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0139 Honda code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0139 Honda code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P0139 Honda Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0139 in a Honda?

- Common symptoms include poor fuel economy, rough idling, engine hesitation, and an illuminated check engine light.

2. What does the OBDII code P0139 in a Honda indicate?

- The code indicates a slow response from the secondary heated oxygen sensor 2, also known as the downstream oxygen sensor.

3. What are the possible causes of code P0139 in a Honda?

- Potential causes include a faulty secondary heated oxygen sensor, wiring issues, exhaust leaks, or a problem with the engine's air-fuel mixture.

4. How can I diagnose the source of the P0139 code in my Honda?

- You can use an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code and then inspect the secondary heated oxygen sensor, check for wiring damage, and look for any exhaust leaks.

5. Can I drive my Honda with the P0139 code present?

- It is generally safe to drive with the code, but it is recommended to address the issue promptly to prevent potential damage to the catalytic converter and ensure optimal engine performance.

6. How can I repair the P0139 code in my Honda?

- Repair options may include replacing the secondary heated oxygen sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, fixing any exhaust leaks, or addressing issues with the air-fuel mixture.

7. Is it possible to reset the P0139 code in a Honda without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can clear the code using an OBDII scanner, the check engine light is likely to reappear if the root cause of the problem is not resolved.

8. How much does it typically cost to fix the P0139 code in a Honda?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific issue causing the code, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the P0139 code in a Honda at home?

- If you have experience working on cars and the necessary tools, you may be able to replace the secondary heated oxygen sensor or address wiring issues yourself. However, diagnosing and fixing exhaust leaks or air-fuel mixture problems may require professional assistance.

10. How often does the P0139 code occur in Honda vehicles?

- The P0139 code can occur in Honda vehicles, particularly in older models or those with high mileage, due to sensor degradation, wiring issues, or exhaust system wear and tear.

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