The P0132 Trouble Code, How To Deal With It

Last updated on September 3rd, 2022 at 01:48 pm

What is the P0132 

The P0132 trouble code is one of the many diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) stored in a car’s computer. All vehicles have computer modules, commonly referred to as PCM (powertrain control module), which include the ECU (engine control unit) and TCU (transmission control unit). The car brain computers are responsible for monitoring and optimizing engine performance and transmission. To achieve this, they use various sensors and send inputs that can trigger trouble codes. Trouble codes are diagnostic codes that can tell a mechanic where the problem is originating from. PCM stores several trouble or error codes that are set when there are engine issues. Faulty PCMs may also trigger random codes, so it is recommendable to hire experienced mechanics to diagnose and troubleshoot the problem whenever a trouble code is set. 

What does code P0132 mean?

The DTC P0132 stands for ” Oxygen Sensor Circuit High Voltage, Specifically the Bank 1, Sensor 1. This code is set when the oxygen sensors in bank 1 (bank1 o2 sensor1) record high voltage for extended periods. O2 sensor circuit low voltage, also known as the upstream o2 sensor, refers to the oxygen sensors installed before the catalytic chamber in a typical single bank engine. The oxygen sensors installed after the catalytic chamber, or downstream o2 sensor is known as o2 sensor2. If the P0132 error code isn’t repaired, it may end up damaging the catalytic converter. As such, it is recommendable to fix P0132 trouble code sooner rather than later.

Causes and symptoms of P0132 trouble code

Circuit high voltage bank1 sensor1 is not considered a serious issue as it can be fixed through simple steps. Hiring an experienced mechanic can reset all PCM error codes using the OBD II scanner and pinpoint the trouble. However, it is crucial to keep an eye on the causes and symptoms of the trouble code. Here are some common causes of a P0132:

• A short in bank 1 sensor 1 heater circuit
• Broken, corroded or exposed oxygen sensor connectors and wires
• Wiring harness issues
• Extremely high fuel temperatures

It is possible to use your car despite the P0132 error code. Some drivers find it challenging to identify the code that is set, although this is usually a mechanics work. Some of the common symptoms of code P0132 include:

Check engine light

There are some cases where you will not notice any symptoms besides the check engine light. When this light illuminates your dashboard, it suggests a problem with the engine or transmission. All codes are set to trigger the check engine light, so you will need an OBD2 scanner tool to determine the code that has been set. Unless your dashboard has lighting issues, a P0132  code will turn on the check engine light.

Increased fuel consumption

Code P0132 means the catalytic chamber is not working at optimum efficiency, which can translate to poor combustion. Your car will end up using more fuel to provide the same power required to turn the engine. Experiencing a dip in fuel efficiency is a common indicator of faulty PCMs and diagnostic trouble codes.

Erratic car performance and transmission

With poor combustion and less than optimum catalytic convertor operation, you will start to experience engine performance issues that range from reduced power to more gallons per mile. Your car’s transmission will also suffer problems such as stalling and annoying noise, especially when shifting gears.

Increased emissions

Since a P0132 DTC deals with catalytic converter performance, problems in the combustion chamber may increase exhaust emissions, including peculiar smoke color and odor. This results from incomplete fuel combustion and leaks within the system. Nonetheless, this symptom stems from various other diagnostic trouble codes, especially those set by imbalances in the catalytic converter and fuel injection.

How to troubleshoot P0132 code

Fixing code P0132 high voltage bank1 sensor1 trouble code requires an OBD2 scanner and expert mechanic troubleshooting. It is recommendable to avoid DIY repairs as this can void your warranty and cost you thousands of dollars in the future. Usually, the mechanic will follow some standard procedures indicated by manufacturers. This may include:

Using an OBD II scanner to take freeze frame data and the record of all stored trouble codes in the PCM.

Resetting all codes to clear the P0132 and turn off the check engine light. This is often followed by a test drive to determine if the check engine light and P0132 comes back on.

Viewing live data from the OBD-II scanner to monitor the voltage level going into the o2 upstream sensors. This process is to set the voltages back to proper levels.

Checking the wiring harness of oxygen sensors to fix exposed or broken wires and connectors.

There are generally two fixes for trouble code P0132. The first is to repair or replace worn-out, broken oxygen sensor wires. It is essential to inspect the wiring harness before replacing oxygen sensors, which is the second solution. In most cases, you don’t need to replace o2 sensors unless they are damaged.

Conclusion

P0132 circuit high voltage bank1 sensor1 is a common trouble code that may be set by various factors. When that happens, it is crucial to get your car computer modules inspected and reset. Leaving the P0132 trouble code to stay for extended periods can cause aggravated damages to other engine systems starting with the catalytic converter. In some cases, the error code is a result of faulty PCMs. If this is the problem, you can find high-quality fabricated PCMs and car computer modules at FLAGSHIP ONE, INC. They offer PCMs, ECMs and other car computer modules for various brands and models.