Oxygen (O2) sensors gauge the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gasses produced by the engine burning air-fuel mixture. They transmit their readings to the powertrain computer module (PCM), which tweaks various processes to ensure the engine efficiently combusts fuel and produces enough power.
The PCM will log a P2241 code if the signal from the upstream oxygen sensor for engine bank two is too low and doesn’t match the programmed parameters.
What Does the P2241 Code Mean?
The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P2241 indicates “O2 Sensor Positive Current Control Circuit Low.” This oxygen sensor is found before the catalytic converter on the engine’s bank two.
Older vehicles have a single oxygen sensor, while newer models come with two or more sensors in different locations for greater accuracy. Upstream O2 sensors are placed between the catalytic converter and the engine. They measure the oxygen content of the exhaust stream.
Meanwhile, downstream oxygen sensors are found after the catalytic converter. They measure the amount of oxygen in the exhaust after the converter breaks down most of the toxic gasses.
Voltage will flow through the oxygen sensor when there is a difference in the oxygen content between the exhaust gas and air drawn from outside. The higher the feedback voltage, the richer the air-fuel mixture is.
Rich air-fuel mixtures have a higher ratio of fuel to air. Conversely, low voltage means the mixture is lean. Both rich and lean mixtures are undesirable, so the PCM will compensate by adjusting the amount of fuel injected into the engine.
The PCM regularly checks the voltage signal sent by the upstream O2 sensor. If the voltage is much lower than the values programmed into the control module’s memory, the generic diagnostic code P2241 might be set.
Note: The definition of code P2241 can differ according to the vehicle manufacturer. Check the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.
What are the Common Causes of the P2241 Code?
- Bad oxygen sensor
- Faulty PCM
- Wiring problems, such as a damaged wire or poor connection
- Lean air-fuel mixture
- Exhaust leak
What are the Common Symptoms of the P2241 Code?
- Illuminated check engine light
- Poor engine performance
- More fuel consumed and wasted
How to Diagnose the P2241 Code
The P2241 code is a generic diagnostic code that various makes and models can log. However, this does not mean there is a one-size-fits-all solution to identify its underlying problem.
If you’re not confident about conducting diagnostic tests on your vehicle, it’s a good idea to bring it to a professional mechanic. Otherwise, you can go ahead and diagnose the issue yourself.
How to Fix the P2241 Code
Attempting to fix a P2241 code can become a challenging task if you don’t have the right tools and know-how to test the oxygen sensor. In most cases, it’s best to leave the job to professionals.
For DIYers with advanced technical knowledge and hands-on experience who prefer to test and replace their vehicle’s oxygen sensors on their own, it will be helpful to rely on the appropriate repair manual or refer to an online repair database.
Fixing P2241 By Replacing Your Oxygen Sensor
Depending on what’s triggering DTC P2241, you might have to replace your vehicle’s oxygen sensor. Driving with a bad oxygen sensor can reduce your engine performance and cause your vehicle to waste fuel. Thankfully, you can get a replacement that fits your vehicle with the help of CarParts.com.
Our sensors come from some of the most reliable names in the industry, each carefully vetted by a team of professionals to guarantee both quality and durability.
Getting your hands on a new sensor is easier than ever, and you won’t even have to take one step outside your door. Simply use your mobile phone or computer to visit CarParts.com. Use our vehicle selector and input your vehicle’s details. Make sure to input the exact year, make, model, and engine to check out our vast collection of compatible parts at affordable prices.
Save yourself some time and trouble by replacing your faulty oxygen sensor to clear DTC P2241 as soon as possible. Shop now at CarParts.com.
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