Error code P0152 is displayed and the check engine light is on - what does this mean?
The OBD/EOBD system has detected that the voltage of the oxygen sensor (lambda sensor) in bank 2, sensor 1 is too high. This DTC P0152 indicates a problem with the lambda sensor upstream of the catalytic converter on the opposite side of the engine. The designation of the engine bank can vary for different manufacturers, which is why exact identification is important.
What causes can this error code have?
- Defective lambda sensor (O2 sensor) bank 2, sensor 1
- Damaged or corroded cable connections to the lambda sensor
- Short circuit in the wiring of the oxygen sensor
- Defective engine control unit (ECU)
- Leaking exhaust system upstream of the lambda sensor
- Contaminated lambda sensor due to fuel additives or oil
- Loose or damaged plug connections
- Incorrect fuel mixture (too rich)
What symptoms occur in parallel with fault code P0152?
- Increased fuel consumption: The vehicle consumes more fuel than usual
- Poor engine performance: Reduced power and sluggish acceleration
- Rough engine running: Engine runs unevenly or jerks when idling
- Black smoke: Dark exhaust fumes from the exhaust pipe
- Starting problems: Difficulty starting the engine
- Check engine light: Permanent display of the check engine light
How to fix the problem of error code P0152?
- The repair requires a systematic diagnosis to identify the exact cause.
- Replace lambda sensor bank 2, sensor 1 completely, using the correct specification for the vehicle model
- Check all cable connections to the lambda sensor, repair or replace damaged cables and clean plug connections
- Check the exhaust system for leaks and replace defective seals or pipes upstream of the lambda sensor
- Have the engine control unit checked for defects and repair or replace if necessary
- Check fuel system and clean injectors to ensure optimum fuel/air mixture
- Test the entire wiring of the O2 sensor for short circuits and replace defective cables
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about DTC P0152
Can I continue driving with error code P0152?
Short distances are possible, but fault code P0152 should be rectified promptly. A defective lambda sensor can lead to increased fuel consumption and catalytic converter damage.
How much does it cost to repair error code P0152?
The cost of rectifying DTC P0152 is between 80-300 euros. A new oxygen sensor costs 50-150 euros, plus labor costs of 30-150 euros depending on the work involved.
How do I know which lambda sensor is faulty with P0152?
Trouble code P0152 refers specifically to bank 2, sensor 1. This is the lambda sensor in front of the catalytic converter on the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder 1.
Can a contaminated lambda sensor cause trouble code P0152?
Yes, contamination by fuel additives, engine oil or coolant can damage the lambda sensor and trigger fault code P0152. In such cases, replacement is usually necessary.
How long does a lambda sensor normally last?
Lambda sensors have a service life of 100,000-160,000 kilometers. With frequent short journeys or poor fuel quality, this can be shortened and lead to fault codes such as P0152 sooner.
Can I change the lambda sensor for P0152 myself?
Replacement is possible with the appropriate tools, but requires experience. As the EOBD code P0152 can also have other causes, professional diagnosis is recommended.