Fault code P2414 is called “O2 Sensor Exhaust Sample Error (Bank 1, Sensor 1)” but in different programs it may be called differently. This fault designation applies to all vehicles equipped with OBD-II.
Technical description and explained code P2414
This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic code. Error P2414 is considered a generic code because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles. Although the specific repair steps may vary slightly depending on the model.
When OBD-II code P2414 is saved, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) detects an exhaust gas sample error from Oxygen Sensor 1 O₂. Bank 1 identifies the engine group that contains cylinder 1.
The oxygen sensors are designed with a zirconium dioxide sensing element. Which is protected by a specially designed vented steel housing. An electrical signal is sent to the PCM according to the percentage of oxygen particles in the engine exhaust gases. It is compared with the oxygen content of the ambient air.
Deviations between the concentration of oxygen molecules in the ambient air and the concentration of oxygen ions in the exhaust gases cause That the heated oxygen ions inside the O2 sensor move very quickly between the platinum layers.
These voltage changes are identified by the PCM as changes in the oxygen concentration in the exhaust gas. Which indicates that the engine is running on a lean or rich mixture.
If the oxygen sensor O₂ generates an exhaust gas sampling error, within a predetermined period of time and under predetermined circumstances. Then the error code P2414 will be stored and the indicator lamp on the instrument panel may illuminate.
Symptoms of vehicle malfunctions
The main signal that an error P2414 has occurred is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is also known as the CheckEngine Light.
It can also be warning signs such as:
- The “Check engine” control lamp on the control panel will light up (the code will be stored as a fault).
- Other related fault codes may also be present.
- Reduced engine power.
- Increased fuel consumption.
Error P2414 is not considered serious, the car will be able to start and continue driving. However, ignoring it for a long time may lead to catalytic converter failure and other consequences.
Factors that can cause this error code
The error code P2414 can mean that one or more of the following problems have occurred:
- The oxygen sensor O₂ may be defective.
- There may be damage to the oxygen sensor O₂ circuit.
- High resistance or a break in the oxygen sensor signal circuit O₂.
- Clogged catalytic converter.
- Engine exhaust leakage.
How to fix or reset OBD-2 code P2414
Some suggested steps for troubleshooting and fix the error code P2414:
- Read all stored data and error codes with an OBD-II scan tool.
- Clear the trouble codes from the computer memory and test-drive the vehicle to find out if error P2414 appears again.
- Observe the oxygen sensor data in real time using the scan tool. To find out if the voltage drops below 0.2 volts when the car slows down.
- Check the oxygen sensor for contamination due to coolant or engine oil leakage. Replace the oxygen sensor O₂ if necessary.
- Inspect the electrical wires related to the oxygen sensor for moisture or mechanical damage. Repair any faults found.
Diagnose and repair of problems
Before dealing with our error make sure that all other codes are diagnosed and repaired. Prepare some tools such as a diagnostic scanner, digital voltmeter. As well as a source of vehicle information.
Visually inspect the system’s wiring harnesses and connectors. Pay particular attention to the harnesses near the hot exhaust pipes and manifolds. Also, those routed near sharp edges of parts.
Then connect the scan tool to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and read any stored trouble codes. This information can be useful if the error turns out to be floating, so write it down for later. Now clear the codes and see if code P2414 is reset.
Now start the engine, let it reach normal operating temperature and let it idle. If the engine is running efficiently, the O₂ sensor data should fluctuate regularly between 1 and 9 millivolts. If the voltage fluctuation is slower than expected, P2414 will be stored.
Connect the test leads of the voltmeter to the sensor ground and signal leads to monitor the data from the O₂ sensor in real time. Check the resistance as well as the voltage and ground signals.
To prevent damage to the control module, disconnect the corresponding controllers before testing the system circuit resistance with a voltmeter.
On which vehicles does this problem occur most frequently
Fault code P2414 can occur on different vehicles but there are statistics on which brands this occurs most often. Here is a list of some of them:
- Audi (A6, Q7)
- BMW (E90)
- Hyundai (Accent)
- Mercedes-Benz
- Mini (Cooper)
- Skoda (Octavia)
- Volkswagen (Touareg)
Fault code P2414 can sometimes be found with other errors. The most common are the following: P2191, P2415, P2416, P2417.