What the OBD-II code p0134 means

Fault code P0134 – a step-by-step guide to diagnosing and fixing it

The meaning of error code P0134 – Oxygen Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
P0134
Search your trouble code

P0134: causes, symptoms and repairs

The meaning of fault code P0134

Code P0134 indicates that exhaust oxygen sensor1 on engine cylinder bank 1 is malfunctioning. This sensor monitors the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases. This information is used to achieve the highest power output with the least pollution. The control module registers this DTC when the sensor is not warming up quickly enough or the voltage is inactive, meaning that it isn t providing accurate readings.

Common causes of P0134

  • Leaks in the exhaust system or a vacuum leaks. These kinds of leaks will negatively affect the accuracy of the sensor.
  • A contaminated sensor. This can occur due to a number of causes, including the use of unsuitable diesel or petrol fuel additives, oil leaks in the combustion chambers, or a rich air-fuel mixture. If there is an excess of fuel in the exhaust system, the tips of the device can become fouled.
  • A poor electrical connection. This could be due to a loose or cracked connector, as this makes the contacts vulnerable to corrosion and reduces conductivity.
  • Wire damage, causing a short or broken circuit. It is possible that the insulation sheath of the wires has frayed or melted due to extreme temperatures, impacts, or exposure to harsh chemicals.
  • A faulty heater circuit. If the heater is malfunctioning, it will take longer for the O2 sensor to heat up to the correct operating temperature.
Possible symptoms

  • Activation of the check engine light
  • Black or excessive smoke coming from the car exhaust parts
  • A stalling and stuttering engine
  • A poor fuel economy
  • A fuel smell inside the car
  • An increase in carbon deposits on components such as the spark plug parts
  • A loss of power
Recommended repairs

  • Scan the onboard computer to check whether any other DTCs have been triggered, and take a look at the freeze frame data. You can do so by connecting an OBD2 scanner to the vehicle via the data link connector. This will help you to quickly identify the underlying causes. You can also deactivate the check engine light by resetting the codes to rule out false error notifications.
  • Inspect the wires, including the ground and signal wire, as well as the connector for signs of damage or significant corrosion. Reattach loose components and replace any damaged parts. If the connector is cracked, you will need to install a new one. However, if the cable itself is intact but the contacts have corroded, it may be possible to restore it by cleaning the contact pins. There are specialised products designed for this purpose.
  • Make sure there aren t any exhaust leaks going from the engine to the sensor. Symptoms of a leak may include a strong smell of fuel fumes in the passenger compartment or loud rumbling or popping noises while the engine is running. You may need to replace components or seals, such as the cylinder head gasket. In many cases, these leaks require professional attention.
  • Check whether the oxygen sensors voltage is within specifications and fluctuates normally while the power unit is running at the right operating temperature. This can be measured using a multimeter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does the code “P0134” mean?


It means that the oxygen sensor one on the first cylinder bank is not warming up quickly enough or that the voltage reading isn’t changing as it is supposed to when the device reaches the operating temperature.

What causes it to appear?


It is often the result of electrical problems, such as loose connections, broken wires and a faulty heater circuit, or leaks and contamination.

Can I still drive my car?


This is advised against, as this fault can eventually reduce the service life of the spark plugs, power unit, and catalytic converter, which could affect the vehicle’s emissions and driveability. Additionally, it normally has a significant effect on the fuel efficiency of the vehicle.

Cars the fault code P0134 is most commonly found on

Fault code P0134 - Oxygen Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1 Sensor 1) can occur with any car but is most often found on the following cars:

  • Ford: Fiesta, Focus
  • Honda: Civic
  • Mazda: 5, 6, 3
  • Vauxhall: Corsa, Zafira
  • VW: Golf
  • Kia

If you get the code P0134 on your car, make sure that the diagnostics are carried out correctly and the error is still relevant. Check for symptoms associated with the problem and explore options for resolving it.

What to do if the fault code p 0134 appears

Most viewed car repair videos

  • Error p0134: a step-by-step diagnosis and repair guide
    How to change front wheel bearing on MERCEDES-BENZ M W163 TUTORIAL | AUTODOC
  • Error p0134: a step-by-step diagnosis and repair guide
    How to change fuel filter BMW 3 (E90) [TUTORIAL AUTODOC]
  • Error p0134: a step-by-step diagnosis and repair guide
    How to change Front wheel bearing on VW GOLF 4 TUTORIAL | AUTODOC
  • Error p0134: a step-by-step diagnosis and repair guide
    How to change a rear brake pads FORD FOCUS 3 TUTORIAL | AUTODOC
  • Error p0134: a step-by-step diagnosis and repair guide
    How to change pollen filter / cabin filter on AUDI A6 (C6) [TUTORIAL AUTODOC]
  • Error p0134: a step-by-step diagnosis and repair guide
    How to change rear brake discs and brake pads on PEUGEOT 307 [TUTORIAL AUTODOC]
  • Error p0134: a step-by-step diagnosis and repair guide
    How to change fuel filter NISSAN X-TRAIL T30 TUTORIAL | AUTODOC
  • Error p0134: a step-by-step diagnosis and repair guide
    How to change front wheel bearing TOYOTA YARIS XP10 TUTORIAL | AUTODOC
Want to get more useful information?

Ask questions or share your repair experience on the car forum. Subscribe to updates so you don't miss out on new guides.

Everything you need to know about the code P0134
Tips from AUTODOC CLUB
View more
  • Life hacks for the code P0134
    How to repair a bumper yourself | AUTODOC tips
  • Fast fixes for the OBD2 code p0134
    How to remove scratches from a car | AUTODOC tips
  • The most common causes of code p 0134
    TOP 4 car cleaning products | AUTODOC tips
  • Advice on what to do about the error P0134
    Top 5 reasons why the suspension knocks | AUTODOC tips
Install the AUTODOC CLUB app!
Your personal car expenses manager, maintenance tips, reminders about upcoming appointments and service intervals, DIY repair instructions – all this on your phone.
QR-code scan for AUTODOC CLUB app
Scan

To download the app:

  • - scan the QR code
  • - download from App Store
  • - download from Google Play
Your profile is your personal assistant.

It can track car expenses, keep a car log and replacement schedule, and save favourite materials, notes and documents