Engine-CodesHonda – P0139 1998 Honda Civic

P0139 1998 Honda Civic Code - HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 Slow Response

Quick Answer

The P0139 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for a 1998 Honda Civic specifically refers to an issue with the Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) located in Bank 1 Sensor 2 of the vehicle's exhaust system. Common causes include Faulty HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2, Wiring or connector issues, Exhaust leaks near the sensor. Severity is Moderate - service should be scheduled soon. The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

What it means
P0139 1998 Honda Civic indicates HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 Slow Response.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2, Wiring or connector issues, Exhaust leaks near the sensor.
Severity
Moderate - service should be scheduled soon.
Can I drive?
The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 11, 2024
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Code P0139 1998 Honda Civic Description

The P0139 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for a 1998 Honda Civic specifically refers to an issue with the Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) located in Bank 1 Sensor 2 of the vehicle's exhaust system. This sensor is responsible for monitoring the oxygen content in the exhaust gases and providing feedback to the engine control module (ECM) to adjust the air-fuel mixture for optimal combustion. A "slow response" indicates that the sensor is not reacting quickly enough to changes in oxygen levels, causing potential issues with fuel efficiency, emissions, and overall engine performance.

OBDII Code P0139 1998 Honda Civic - HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 Slow Response
P0139 1998 Honda Civic Code - HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 Slow Response

Common Causes of P0139 1998 Honda Civic

  1. Faulty HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2
  2. Wiring or connector issues
  3. Exhaust leaks near the sensor
  4. Vacuum leaks in the intake system
  5. Contaminated fuel or oil affecting sensor performance

Symptoms of P0139 1998 Honda Civic

  1. Decreased fuel efficiency
  2. Rough idle or stalling
  3. Engine hesitation or misfires
  4. Illuminated check engine light
  5. Failed emissions test

How to Fix P0139 1998 Honda Civic

  1. Confirm the code: Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm that the P0139 code is present and diagnose the specific issue with the HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2.
  2. Inspect sensor and wiring: Check the sensor for physical damage and inspect the wiring and connectors for any signs of wear or corrosion.
  3. Replace sensor: If the sensor is faulty, replace it with a new OEM or high-quality aftermarket sensor.
  4. Repair wiring/connectors: Repair or replace any damaged wiring or connectors to ensure proper electrical connections.
  5. Clear codes and test: After completing the repair, clear the fault codes with the scanner and test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved.

Cost to Fix P0139 1998 Honda Civic

The cost of repairing a P0139 code on a 1998 Honda Civic can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and whether any additional parts or labor are needed. In general, the cost of replacing the HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 can range from $100 to $200 for the part alone. Labor costs can add an additional $100 to $200, resulting in a total repair cost of $200 to $400. It's important to note that prices may vary based on location, vehicle make and model, and the specific shop rates. It's recommended to obtain quotes from local auto repair shops for a more accurate estimate.

Tech Notes for P0139 1998 Honda Civic

Replacing the Rear Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 usually takes care of the problem.

When is the Code Detected?

The P0139 code is set when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects that the rear O2 sensor takes more time to respond between rich and lean than the specified time.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0139 1998 Honda Civic Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0139 in a 1998 Honda Civic?

- Common symptoms include poor fuel economy, rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, and an illuminated check engine light.

2. What does the OBDII code P0139 for a 1998 Honda Civic indicate?

- The code P0139 indicates a slow response from the heated oxygen sensor (HO2S) located in Bank 1, Sensor 2 of the exhaust system.

3. What are the possible causes of a slow response from the HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 in a 1998 Honda Civic?

- Potential causes include a faulty oxygen sensor, wiring issues, exhaust leaks, fuel pressure problems, or an engine misfire.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0139 in my 1998 Honda Civic?

- Diagnose by checking the oxygen sensor's wiring for damage, inspecting for exhaust leaks, verifying proper fuel pressure, and scanning for other related trouble codes.

5. Can I drive my 1998 Honda Civic with OBDII code P0139?

- It is not recommended to drive extensively with code P0139 present, as it can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and potential damage to the catalytic converter.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0139 in my 1998 Honda Civic?

- Repair options include replacing the HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2, repairing any damaged wiring, fixing exhaust leaks, addressing fuel system issues, or resolving any engine misfires.

7. Is it safe to continue driving my 1998 Honda Civic if the check engine light is on due to code P0139?

- While the vehicle may still be operational, it is best to address the underlying issue promptly to prevent potential damage to the engine and emissions system.

8. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0139 in a 1998 Honda Civic?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the specific issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor, excluding diagnostic fees.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0139 in a 1998 Honda Civic?

- Depending on the skill level and tools available, a DIY enthusiast may be able to replace the oxygen sensor or address wiring issues, but more complex diagnostics may require professional help.

10. How often should the HO2S Bank 1 Sensor 2 be replaced in a 1998 Honda Civic?

- Oxygen sensors typically last around 100,000 miles, but it is advisable to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for optimal performance.

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