P0041 Downstream Oxygen Sensors Swapped From Bank To Bank

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P0041 Downstream Oxygen Sensors Swapped From Bank To Bank

OBD-II DTC Trouble Code Description

O2 Sensor Signals Swapped Bank 1 Sensor 2 / Bank 2 Sensor 2

What does that mean?

This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic OBD-II powertrain code. It is considered generic because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles (1996-newer), although specific repair steps may vary depending on the make and model. Owners of these these brands may include but are not limited to BMW, Dodge, Ford, Chrylser, Audi, VW, Mazda, Jeep, etc.

In a nutshell, a P0041 code means that the vehicle’s computer (the PCM or powertrain control module) has detected that the O2 oxygen sensors downstream from the catalytic converter have swapped wiring.

The vehicle’s PCM uses the multiple oxygen sensor readings to adjust how much fuel to inject into the engine for most efficient operation. The PCM monitors the engine sensor readings and if for example it puts more fuel into bank 2 of the engine but then sees that the bank 1 oxygen sensor is reacting instead of bank 2, that is the type of thing that triggers this code. For this DTC, the #2 O2 oxygen sensor will be downstream from (after) the catalytic converter. You may also experience the P0040 DTC at the same time.

This code is uncommon and only applies to vehicles with engines that have more than one bank of cylinders. Bank 1 is always the bank of the engine that contains cylinder #1.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a P0041 engine code may include:

  • Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminated solid or flashing
  • Decreased engine power or rough running/idle
  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Causes

    A P0041 DTC trouble code may be caused by one or more of the following:

  • Oxygen sensors #2 wiring connectors swapped from bank to bank (most likely)
  • O2 sensors #2 wiring crossed, damaged, and/or shorted
  • Failed PCM (less likely)
  • Possible Solutions

    A good first step is to find out if there was any recent work done in the area of the exhaust and O2 sensors. If there was, then there is a good chance that the most likely cause is the issue. That is, swapped wiring connectors for the second O2 sensor from bank 1 to bank 2.

    Visually inspect all wiring and connectors leading to the second O2 sensors (these will likely be behind/downstream from the catalytic converters). Look to see if the wires are intact and not burned or twisted, etc. More than likely the connectors are swapped. If you are a DIY you could even try swapping these two oxygen wiring connectors as a first repair step, then clear the trouble codes and road test to see if the code returns. If it does not return then that was most likely the problem.

    A next step would be to closely inspect the O2 wiring & connectors at the PCM end. Make sure wires are in the correct pin locations going into the PCM and it’s harness (refer to a vehicle specific repair manual for that). Be aware if there are swapped wires, damaged wires, etc. Repair as required.

    If necessary, perform a continuity test of each individual wire from the PCM to the O2 sensor. Repair as necessary.

    If you have access to an advanced scan tool, use it to monitor (graph) the O2 sensor readings and compare to specs. PCM failure is kind of a last resort and isn’t always DIY friendly. If the PCM has failed, you likely should take it to a qualified technician for repair or replacement.

    Other related DTCs: P0040

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    "Delete Error Code Permanently, Disable DTC Error Code Function for p0041 in the ECU"

    In extreme cases, we even have the option to permanently remove the specific DTC p0041 and disable the function of the specific error code in the ECU. All other fault code functions will then continue to work to protect the engine. This is different from clearing an error code with a diagnostic device. We have the option to permanently remove the function of the specific error code, so that it never comes back. Also emergency running that occurs on the specific error code can be solved in most cases.

    Of course we prefer to first try to solve the cause of the error code, but sometimes the only solution is to permanently disable the DTC function of p0041.

    Make an appointment for permanent removal of p0041