2000 dodge durango code p0161
THE ULTI-MOD
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 19,797
Likes: 36
From: Union NJ
splicing is generally considered bad when there is a p lug and play alternative, too much work and too easy for the average person to screw up and it leaves another exposed point for water to get in if not sealed up correctly
+2 on that shrp. If you do go the route of splicing (especially with an O2 sensor) make sure you use both liquid tape, and some electrical tape because weather will wreak havoc on that sensor and cause groups of MIL codes to come up.
Splicing should only be used for an O2 Simulator though IMHO because like shrp said, a simply plug and play alternative is just too easy to pass up.
Splicing should only be used for an O2 Simulator though IMHO because like shrp said, a simply plug and play alternative is just too easy to pass up.
Registered User
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Almost the same issue P0161
I get a P0161 on my 2001 Durango with 5 O2 sensors & 3 Cat converters.
I've changed the O2 sensor three times, the first time with a Bosch, then with ND sensors. I can change the sensor in about 30 minutes, but I have to figure about 2 hours for getting the wiring to release and getting the new wiring to set in the connector correctly. That part is tedious and best left to those with slender fingers. I've been using two 18 inch long forceps, and it is still tedious, but at least I can see the connector ends.
I still get the P0161 error. I have also replaced the 02 relay with a dodge part.
If I don't fully warm up the truck before driving off, the engine light will come on before I clear the driveway. If I completely warm it up before I drive off, I can make it about 3 days before the engine light goes off. Right now my problem is I'm trying to smog it in CA. I reset the codes and drove over a 100 miles and failed the test because two readings aren't in memory, one is for the Evap and one is the 02 heating.
There was also a problem with two evap hoses that rotted off in front of the gas tank, I guess they go to the charcoal canister. They've been replaced.
I am very frustrated.
I've changed the O2 sensor three times, the first time with a Bosch, then with ND sensors. I can change the sensor in about 30 minutes, but I have to figure about 2 hours for getting the wiring to release and getting the new wiring to set in the connector correctly. That part is tedious and best left to those with slender fingers. I've been using two 18 inch long forceps, and it is still tedious, but at least I can see the connector ends.
I still get the P0161 error. I have also replaced the 02 relay with a dodge part.
If I don't fully warm up the truck before driving off, the engine light will come on before I clear the driveway. If I completely warm it up before I drive off, I can make it about 3 days before the engine light goes off. Right now my problem is I'm trying to smog it in CA. I reset the codes and drove over a 100 miles and failed the test because two readings aren't in memory, one is for the Evap and one is the 02 heating.
There was also a problem with two evap hoses that rotted off in front of the gas tank, I guess they go to the charcoal canister. They've been replaced.
I am very frustrated.
Hall Of Fame
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 14,228
Likes: 19
From: Riverton, UT
P0161 2/2 02 Sens Heater Failure
This sensor is on the passenger side after the first CAT. Now I would use 1 of 2 O2 sensor name brands. The 1st would be NTK, and the second would be Denso. On www.rockauto.com you can buy Desno O2 sensors for cheap. Bosch sucks as they are made in South America with cheap parts yet they are one of the most expensive? I just replaced both in my Ram for $60 bucks delivered, search for a coupon number on line for an added 10% off and that will pay for shipping.
As for the rubber lines, you can get replacements from the dealer for a good price or just use fuel line from a parts store and some worm clamps.
I find it hard to understand why you keep having issues? However I personally don't like those name brand sensors. Also when was the last time you replaced the spark plugs? You should use Champion Copper plugs and gap them at .040 before install. Yes these are the cheap $2 dollar plugs. Also could be a harness corrosion or oil in the connection issue.
This sensor is on the passenger side after the first CAT. Now I would use 1 of 2 O2 sensor name brands. The 1st would be NTK, and the second would be Denso. On www.rockauto.com you can buy Desno O2 sensors for cheap. Bosch sucks as they are made in South America with cheap parts yet they are one of the most expensive? I just replaced both in my Ram for $60 bucks delivered, search for a coupon number on line for an added 10% off and that will pay for shipping.
As for the rubber lines, you can get replacements from the dealer for a good price or just use fuel line from a parts store and some worm clamps.
I find it hard to understand why you keep having issues? However I personally don't like those name brand sensors. Also when was the last time you replaced the spark plugs? You should use Champion Copper plugs and gap them at .040 before install. Yes these are the cheap $2 dollar plugs. Also could be a harness corrosion or oil in the connection issue.
