📌 Meaning of INFINITI Code P1288
Code P1288 is triggered when the ECM (Engine Control Module) detects that the response from the Air/Fuel (A/F) Ratio Sensor #1, Bank 2 is too slow to switch from a rich mixture to a lean mixture.
This “wideband” type sensor accurately measures the air/fuel ratio, not only at λ = 1 (stoichiometric mixture), but also in rich and lean ranges. It uses an oxygen pumping system to regulate gases in a diffusion chamber and provide a precise signal to the PCM.
⚠️ Possible Symptoms
-
🔥 Check Engine Light On
-
⛽ Rough Idle or unstable idle
-
🌬️ Abnormal Fuel Consumption
-
🐢 Slight Loss of Performance
📍 Possible Causes of INFINITI Code P1288
-
❌ Faulty A/F Sensor (Bank 2, Sensor 1)
-
🔌 Damaged Sensor Wiring Harness or Connector
-
⚡ Faulty Electrical Connection (bent pin, corrosion, etc.)
-
🛠️ Fuel Pressure Too Low
-
💨 Intake Air Leak or Exhaust Leak
-
💉 Faulty Fuel Injector
-
⚙️ Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
-
🔁 Faulty PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) Valve
🔍 When is Code P1288 Detected?
The ECM expects a fast response from the A/F sensor after startup or acceleration. If the signal takes too long to indicate a switch from rich to lean, it triggers DTC P1288.
🧰 How to Fix Code P1288?
-
Visual Inspection:
-
Check the condition of the A/F sensor wiring (Bank 2, Sensor 1)
-
Look for bent, corroded, or broken pins
-
-
Test the A/F Sensor:
-
Use an OBD2 diagnostic tool to read the sensor’s real-time values
-
Check if it reacts to accelerations/decelerations
-
-
Check for Leaks:
-
Air leak in the intake hoses
-
Exhaust leak before the sensor
-
-
Check Fuel Pressure
-
Pressure that is too low can distort the air/fuel ratio
-
-
Test the Fuel Injector and PCV Valve
-
Ensure they are functioning correctly
-
-
Replace the A/F Sensor if all checks are good but the code persists
💡 Pro Tip
The A/F sensor operates at very high temperatures (700-800°C). If the sensor’s internal heater is faulty, the sensor will take longer to reach its operating temperature, which can also trigger this code. This point is often overlooked during diagnosis.