2017 XC60 T6 Check Engine Light - P0135 & P0141

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Chris P. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:15 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Volvo XC60 T6 R-Design

I have a 2017 Volvo XC60 T6 R-Design, and the check engine light just came on. I used my OBD-II scanner and pulled two codes: P0135 and P0141. Both relate to the O2 sensor heater circuit.

The car seems to be running fine, no noticeable performance issues or changes in fuel economy yet. Could this be a bad O2 sensor, or is there something else I should be looking for, like a wiring issue or a fuse?

I'd like to try and diagnose this myself before taking it to a shop if possible. Any common culprits for these codes on a Volvo?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It's good that you've pulled the codes P0135 and P0141 for your 2017 Volvo XC60 T6. These codes specifically indicate a malfunction in the heater circuit of the oxygen sensors. P0135 refers to Bank 1 Sensor 1 (upstream), and P0141 refers to Bank 1 Sensor 2 (downstream).

Here's what you should check:

  1. Faulty O2 Sensor Heater: The most common cause for these codes is a failed heater element within the oxygen sensor itself. The heater helps the sensor reach operating temperature quickly for accurate readings. If it fails, the sensor won't function correctly, triggering the codes. Since both upstream and downstream sensors are showing heater circuit faults, it's possible both have failed, or there's a common power supply issue.
  2. Blown Fuse: Oxygen sensor heaters draw power from a fuse. Check your vehicle's fuse box (refer to your owner's manual for location and specific fuse numbers for O2 sensors). A single blown fuse could affect both sensors if they share a circuit.
  3. Wiring Harness Damage: Inspect the wiring leading to both O2 sensors. Look for any signs of fraying, cuts, rodent damage, or corrosion at the connectors. A damaged wire could interrupt the heater circuit.
  4. ECM/PCM Fault: While less common, a fault in the Engine Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) that controls the O2 sensor heaters could be the culprit. However, this is usually a last resort diagnosis.

When to see a shop: If you've checked the fuses and visually inspected the wiring without finding an obvious issue, it's time to consider replacing the O2 sensors. If replacing them doesn't clear the codes, or if you're uncomfortable working with electrical components, a professional mechanic or Volvo dealership can perform more in-depth diagnostics. They can test the voltage and resistance at the sensor connectors to confirm whether the sensors are faulty or if there's an issue with the wiring or ECM.