AutoCodesGeneric – P164B

P164B Code - O2 Sensor Positive Current Trim Circuit Performance Bank 2 Sensor 1

Quick Answer

A resistor is installed in the universal Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) connector for part to part variance. Common causes include Faulty Universal HO2S, Universal HO2S harness is open or shorted, Universal HO2S 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
P164B indicates O2 Sensor Positive Current Trim Circuit Performance Bank 2 Sensor 1.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Universal HO2S, Universal HO2S harness is open or shorted, Universal HO2S 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 3,770
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jan 05, 2020
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Code P164B Description

A resistor is installed in the universal Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) connector for part to part variance. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) determines the value of this resistor by taking multiple measurements of the resistor during each ignition ON event. The PCM uses this value in order to compensate for the variance in the pumping current signal. The test fails if the PCM receives an inconsistent or erratic measurement of the resistor.
OBDII Code P164B - O2 Sensor Positive Current Trim Circuit Performance Bank 2 Sensor 1 - AutoCodes.com
P164B Code - O2 Sensor Positive Current Trim Circuit Performance Bank 2 Sensor 1

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P164B?

  • Faulty Universal HO2S
  • Universal HO2S harness is open or shorted
  • Universal HO2S circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P164B?

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 P164B 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 P164B code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

  • P164B Ford — O2 Sensor Positive Current Trim Circuit Performance Bank 2 Sensor 1
  • P164B Lincoln — O2 Sensor Positive Current Trim Circuit Performance Bank 2 Sensor 1
  • P164B Mercury — O2 Sensor Positive Current Trim Circuit Performance Bank 2 Sensor 1
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 P164B Code

1. What does OBDII code P164B mean?

P164B indicates an issue with the O2 Sensor Positive Current Trim Circuit Performance for Bank 2 Sensor 1, which monitors oxygen levels in the exhaust to adjust the air-fuel mixture.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P164B?

Symptoms may include a check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and reduced engine performance.

3. What causes the P164B code to appear?

Common causes include a faulty O2 sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning ECM, or exhaust leaks near the sensor.

4. How do I diagnose the P164B code?

Start by inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, checking for exhaust leaks, testing the O2 sensor with a multimeter, and using a scan tool to monitor live sensor data.

5. Can I drive with the P164B code?

While the vehicle may still drive, ignoring this code can lead to poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to the catalytic converter.

6. How is the P164B code fixed?

Repairs may involve replacing the O2 sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, fixing exhaust leaks, or reprogramming the ECM if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to repair the P164B code?

The cost varies depending on the issue, but replacing an O2 sensor typically costs $150–$300, including parts and labor.

8. Can a bad catalytic converter trigger the P164B code?

While uncommon, a failing catalytic converter can indirectly affect O2 sensor readings and potentially contribute to this code.

9. Does the P164B code always mean the O2 sensor is bad?

No, it could also be caused by wiring issues, exhaust leaks, or a problem with the ECM.

10. What tools are needed to troubleshoot the P164B code?

You’ll need an OBDII scan tool, a multimeter, and possibly a smoke machine to check for exhaust leaks.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P164B OBDII Code

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