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P0160: O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 2 Sensor 2)
Severity: Low With a steady light and normal running, arrange diagnosis soon. Stop for a flashing light, severe misfire, overheating, or a glowing catalyst; do not assume those symptoms are only a sensor fault.
What does P0160 mean?
No expected oxygen-signal activity is detected at the sensor behind the bank 2 catalyst. An inactive rear sensor can prevent reliable catalyst monitoring even though the engine continues to run normally.
Generic OBD-II definition: O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 2 Sensor 2). Confirm applicability in your vehicle service information.
Common causes
- Failed bank 2 downstream sensor
- Melted harness or broken terminals
- Exhaust leak near the sensor
- Sensor not warming because of a heater fault
Symptoms
- Check engine light
- Often no noticeable driving change
- Possible decrease in fuel economy
Diagnostic focus
Distinguish this from P0159 slow response and P0161 heater malfunction. Those tests monitor different behavior, although a heater fault can be a reason a sensor never becomes active.
Can I keep driving with P0160?
Severity: Low With a steady light and normal running, arrange diagnosis soon. Stop for a flashing light, severe misfire, overheating, or a glowing catalyst; do not assume those symptoms are only a sensor fault.
If the check engine light is flashing or the car runs badly, stop driving and have it checked.
Typical fixes
- Check bank 2 rear heater operation
- Inspect the signal circuit for opens and shorts
- Confirm sensor activity with the vehicle-specific test
Related codes
O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 2)P0159
O2 Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 2 Sensor 2)P0161
O2 Sensor Heater Circuit (Bank 2 Sensor 2)
Sources & review
Definitions and diagnostic background checked 2026-11-06. Generic guidance, not a substitute for the service procedure for your exact year, engine, and transmission.