AutoCodes – Chevrolet – P0146 Chevrolet

P0146 Chevrolet Code - O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected 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
P0146 Chevrolet indicates O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected 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 16,918
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 P0146 Chevrolet 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 P0146 Chevrolet - O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected Bank 1 Sensor 3 - AutoCodes.com
P0146 Chevrolet Code - O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected Bank 1 Sensor 3

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0146 Chevrolet?

  • 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 P0146 Chevrolet?

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 P0146 Chevrolet 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 P0146 Chevrolet code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0146 Chevrolet code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 P0146 Chevrolet Code

1. What does OBDII code P0146 for a Chevrolet mean?

The code P0146 indicates that there is no activity detected in the O2 sensor circuit of Bank 1 Sensor 3 in a Chevrolet vehicle.

2. What are the common symptoms of O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected Bank 1 Sensor 3?

Common symptoms include poor fuel efficiency, rough idling, engine misfires, and the illumination of the check engine light on the dashboard.

3. What are the potential causes of OBDII code P0146 in a Chevrolet?

Possible causes include a faulty O2 sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, exhaust leaks, or issues with the vehicle's engine control module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected Bank 1 Sensor 3 issue in my Chevrolet?

Diagnosis typically involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the trouble codes, conducting a visual inspection of the sensor and its wiring, performing continuity tests, and checking for exhaust leaks.

5. Can I continue driving my Chevrolet with OBDII code P0146 present?

While the vehicle may still be operable with this code, it is recommended to address the issue promptly to prevent potential damage to the engine and ensure optimal performance.

6. How can I repair O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected Bank 1 Sensor 3 in my Chevrolet?

Repair options may include replacing the faulty O2 sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, fixing any exhaust leaks, or reprogramming the ECM if necessary.

7. Is it possible to reset the check engine light after fixing OBDII code P0146 in a Chevrolet?

Yes, the check engine light can be reset using an OBDII scanner or by disconnecting the vehicle's battery for a few minutes to clear the error code.

8. Are there any maintenance tips to prevent O2 sensor issues in a Chevrolet?

Regularly scheduled maintenance, such as replacing the O2 sensors at recommended intervals, ensuring proper installation, and addressing any exhaust system leaks promptly, can help prevent O2 sensor issues.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast tackle the repair of O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected Bank 1 Sensor 3 in a Chevrolet?

Depending on their skill level and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to replace the O2 sensor or address wiring issues. However, complex diagnostics and ECM reprogramming may require professional assistance.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0146 in a Chevrolet?

The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the complexity of the repair. Simple fixes like replacing an O2 sensor can be completed in a relatively short time, while more involved repairs may take longer.

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