Fault code P0150 – a step-by-step guide to diagnosing and fixing it

The meaning of error code P0150 – O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 1)

P0150: Causes, signs and repairs

Error code P0150 is displayed and the check engine light is on - what does this mean?

The OBD/EOBD system has detected a fault in the lambda sensor circuit of bank 2, sensor 1. This DTC P0150 indicates a problem with the front lambda sensor on the opposite side of the engine, which is responsible for fuel-air mixture regulation.

What causes can this error code have?

Defective lambda sensor bank 2, sensor 1
Damaged cable connections to the lambda sensor
Corroded or loose plug connections
Short circuit in the wiring
Defective engine control unit (ECU)
Broken ground wire of the lambda sensor
Damaged heater of the lambda sensor
Dirty or oily lambda sensor

What symptoms occur in parallel with fault code P0150?

Increased fuel consumption: The vehicle consumes significantly more fuel than usual
Unsteady idling: The engine runs unevenly or rough at idle speed
Loss of power: Noticeable reduction in engine power, especially when accelerating
Exhaust odor: Strong or unusual smell from the exhaust
Jerking when driving: Engine jerks or stutters while driving
Poor exhaust values: Increased emission values during the emissions test

How can the problem with error code P0150 be rectified?

Repairing error code P0150 requires a systematic approach to identifying and eliminating the cause.
Replacement of the defective lambda sensor bank 2, sensor 1 with a new original part or high-quality spare part
Repair or replace damaged cable connections between lambda sensor and engine control unit
Cleaning and treatment of corroded plug connections with contact spray and subsequent sealing
Elimination of short circuits in the wiring by replacing the affected wiring harness
Checking and repairing the earth connection of the lambda sensor on the engine block
Replacement of the engine control unit in the event of a proven defect after prior diagnosis
Professional cleaning of a contaminated lambda sensor or complete replacement in the event of severe contamination

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about DTC P0150

Can I continue driving with error code P0150?

It is possible to continue driving for a short time, but the fault should be rectified as soon as possible. The code P0150 can lead to increased fuel consumption and engine damage.

How much does it cost to repair error code P0150?

The cost of rectifying the P0150 trouble code is between 80-300 euros. A new lambda sensor costs around 50-150 euros, plus labor costs of 30-150 euros depending on the workshop.

How long does it take to repair fault code P0150?

The repair of the P0150 fault code usually takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the accessibility of the lambda sensor and the extent of the work required.

Can I fix the P0150 fault code myself?

With the appropriate knowledge and tools, it is possible to carry out the repair yourself. However, replacing the lambda sensor requires special tools and should be carried out by a specialist workshop if you are unsure.

How often does error code P0150 occur?

DTC P0150 is one of the more common EOBD error codes and occurs particularly in vehicles with higher mileage (over 100,000 km), as lambda sensors are wearing parts.

What other fault codes occur together with P0150?

The codes P0130, P0131, P0132 or P0133 often appear together with P0150, which also affect the lambda sensors and indicate problems in the fuel-air mixture.

Vehicles in which fault code P0150 occurs most frequently

Error code P0150 is a standardized OBD-II code that indicates problems with the lambda sensor bank 2, sensor 1 and can occur in all vehicles with an OBD-II system, but is most common in the following vehicles:

Toyota: Camry, Corolla, RAV4, Highlander, Prius (2000-2020)
Honda: Accord, Civic, CR-V, Pilot, Odyssey (1998-2019)
Nissan: Altima, Sentra, Maxima, Pathfinder, Murano (2000-2018)
Ford: F-150, Explorer, Focus, Escape, Mustang (1999-2020)
Chevrolet: Silverado, Malibu, Equinox, Tahoe, Impala (2000-2019)
BMW: 3 Series, 5 Series, X3, X5, Z4 (2001-2017)
Mercedes-Benz: C-Class, E-Class, ML-Class, GLK-Class (2002-2018)
Audi: A4, A6, Q5, Q7, A3 (2001-2019)
Volkswagen: Golf, Passat, Jetta, Tiguan, Touareg (2000-2020)
Hyundai: Elantra, Sonata, Santa Fe, Tucson, Accent (2001-2019)

If code P0150 occurs in your vehicle, it is advisable to have a thorough diagnosis carried out first to determine the exact cause. An early repair prevents consequential damage to the engine and reduces repair costs in the long term. In older vehicles, the condition of other lambda sensors should also be checked, as they often show similar signs of wear.

How to change front wheel bearing on MERCEDES-BENZ M W163 TUTORIAL | AUTODOC

151K views

Published on: 26/07/2018
How to change fuel filter BMW 3 (E90) [TUTORIAL AUTODOC]

241K views

Published on: 17/04/2019
How to change Front wheel bearing on VW GOLF 4 TUTORIAL | AUTODOC

177K views

Published on: 26/07/2018
How to change a rear brake pads FORD FOCUS 3 TUTORIAL | AUTODOC

169K views

Published on: 27/07/2018
How to change pollen filter / cabin filter on AUDI A6 (C6) [TUTORIAL AUTODOC]

150K views

Published on: 25/10/2019
How to change engine thermostat on PEUGEOT 207 [TUTORIAL AUTODOC]

147K views

Published on: 09/12/2020
How to change fuel filter NISSAN X-TRAIL T30 TUTORIAL | AUTODOC

139K views

Published on: 27/07/2018
How to change front wheel bearing TOYOTA YARIS XP10 TUTORIAL | AUTODOC

120K views

Published on: 26/07/2018

How to change serpentine belt on MERCEDES-BENZ A-Class (W169) – replacement guide

Free download PDF
1.38 MB
How to change engine oil and filter on BMW 1 Hatchback (F20) – replacement guide

Free download PDF
1.62 MB
How to change engine thermostat on VW Golf VI Hatchback (5K1) – replacement guide

Free download PDF
4.12 MB
How to change water pump & timing belt kit on Ford Fiesta JA8 – replacement guide

Free download PDF
7.83 MB
How to change front strut mount on AUDI A1 Hatchback (8X1, 8XK) – replacement guide

Free download PDF
3.8 MB
How to change water pump & timing belt kit on Peugeot 307 SW – replacement guide

Free download PDF
7.01 MB

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.

Ask on the forum

Top 5 car noises you shouldn't ignore

7K views

Published on: 10/04/2025
5 more brake repair mistakes | Stop making these brake repair mistakes

9K views

Published on: 22/01/2025
K2 ROTON wheel cleaner overview

4K views

Published on: 27/03/2025
5 tools that make car repair incredibly simple | AUTODOC tips

49K views

Published on: 25/01/2024