How severe is this DTC?
A shorted HO2S could cause very poor engine operation and various driving issues. A P2232 code should be classified as severe and rectified as quickly as possible.
What are some symptoms of the code?
Symptoms of a P2232 trouble code may include:
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Decreased engine performance
- Stored misfire codes or lean/rich exhaust codes
- Service engine soon light illumination
What are some common causes of the code?
Causes of this code may include:
- Faulty oxygen sensor(s)
- Burned, chafed, broken, or disconnected wiring and/or connectors
- PCM programming error or faulty PCM
What are the troubleshooting steps for P2232?
A diagnostic scanner, digital volt/ohmmeter (DVOM), and reliable vehicle information source will be needed to accurately diagnose a P2232 code.
Connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and retrieve all stored codes and relevant freeze frame data. You’ll want to note this information in case the code proves to be intermittent. Then clear the codes and test drive the vehicle. One of two things will happen at this point. Either the P2232 code will reset, or the PCM will enter readiness mode.
If the code is intermittent and the PCM enters readiness mode, it may prove more difficult to diagnose. The conditions that caused the P2232 to store may need to worsen before an accurate diagnosis can be made. If the code resets, continue your diagnosis.
Connector face views, connector pinout diagrams, component location diagrams, wiring schematics, and diagnostic flowcharts (related to the specific code and vehicle) can be found using your vehicle information source.
Perform a visual inspection of wiring and connectors related to the HO2S. Replace any wiring that has been cut, burned, or damaged.
If the P2232 code continues to reset, start the engine. Let it reach normal operating temperature and idle (with transmission in neutral or park). Connect the scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and observe oxygen sensor input data on the data stream. Narrow the scope of the data stream to include only relevant data and you’ll get a faster response.
If the oxygen sensors are functioning normally, the voltage on pre-cat oxygen sensors will continuously cycle between 1 and 900 millivolts once the PCM enters closed-loop operation. Post-cat sensors will also cycle between 1 and 900 millivolts, but they will stabilize at a certain point and remain relatively stable (compared to pre-cat sensors). HO2S that aren’t functioning properly should be considered faulty if the engine is in good operating condition.
If the HO2S displays battery voltage or no voltage on the scanner data stream, use the DVOM to obtain live data from the HO2S connector. If the output data remains the same, suspect an internal HO2S short circuit that will need replacement.
In most cases, you’ll rectify this code by replacing the HO2S in question but still complete your diagnosis.