AutoCodes – Mercedes-Benz – P0143 Mercedes-Benz

P0143 Mercedes-Benz Code - O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 3

Quick Answer

The rear heated oxygen sensor (or sensor 3 for some vehicles), after three way catalyst (manifold), monitors the oxygen level in the exhaust gas on each bank. Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3 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
P0143 Mercedes-Benz indicates O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 3.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted, Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3 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 4,090
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P0143 Mercedes-Benz Description

The rear heated oxygen sensor (or sensor 3 for some vehicles), after three way catalyst (manifold), monitors the oxygen level in the exhaust gas on each bank. Even if switching characteristics of the heated oxygen sensor 1 are shifted, the air-fuel ratio is controlled to stoichiometric, by the signal from the heated oxygen sensor 3.
This sensor is made of ceramic zirconia. The zirconia generates voltage from approximately 1V in richer conditions to 0V in leaner conditions. Under normal conditions the heated oxygen sensor 3 is not used for engine control operation.
OBDII Code P0143 Mercedes-Benz - O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 3 - AutoCodes.com
P0143 Mercedes-Benz Code - O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 3

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0143 Mercedes-Benz?

  • Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3
  • Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted
  • Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 3 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0143 Mercedes-Benz?

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 P0143 Mercedes-Benz 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 P0143 Mercedes-Benz code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0143 Mercedes-Benz code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0143 Mercedes-Benz 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 P0143 Mercedes-Benz Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0143 in a Mercedes-Benz?

The common symptoms include poor fuel economy, rough idle, engine misfires, and a noticeable decrease in engine performance.

2. What does the O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 3 error code indicate in a Mercedes-Benz?

This code indicates that the oxygen sensor in bank 1, sensor 3 is detecting a low voltage condition, which can affect the air-fuel mixture and engine performance.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0143 in a Mercedes-Benz?

Possible causes include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, exhaust leaks, engine misfires, or a malfunctioning PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

4. How can I diagnose the O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 3 error code in my Mercedes-Benz?

Diagnosing this code typically involves using a scan tool to read the code, checking the oxygen sensor's voltage and wiring, inspecting for exhaust leaks, and testing the PCM for proper operation.

5. Can I drive my Mercedes-Benz with the P0143 code present?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with this code present, as it can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, engine performance issues, and potential damage to the catalytic converter.

6. How can I repair the O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 3 error code in my Mercedes-Benz?

Repair options may include replacing the oxygen sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, fixing exhaust leaks, addressing engine misfires, or reprogramming the PCM.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code P0143 in my Mercedes-Benz make it go away permanently?

Resetting the code may temporarily clear the error, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear once the system detects the problem again.

8. Is it possible to prevent the O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 3 code from appearing in my Mercedes-Benz?

Regular maintenance, such as checking and replacing oxygen sensors as needed, ensuring proper engine performance, and addressing any exhaust leaks promptly, can help prevent this code from appearing.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair the P0143 code in a Mercedes-Benz?

The cost of repair can vary depending on the root cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $500 or more, including parts and labor.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 3 error code in a Mercedes-Benz?

While some aspects of diagnosing and repairing this code can be tackled by experienced DIY enthusiasts, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for accurate diagnosis and proper repair to ensure the issue is resolved effectively.

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