The Quick Answer above is the generic definition. What follows is the model-specific detail for the BMW models that log P0160.
DTC/P0160·BMW
P0160 on BMW: Causes, Symptoms and Fix Cost
Quick Answer
Moderate SeveritySafe to drive (short-term)BMW
P0160 on a BMW means the engine computer cannot detect any activity from the Bank 2 downstream oxygen sensor (after the catalytic converter, Sensor 2): the signal stays flat or out of range. Bank 2 is the half of the engine without cylinder 1, found on most V6 and V8 engines, flat-six engines and a few straight sixes with a split exhaust. The usual causes are a failed sensor, a broken wire, or a connector that has come loose or corroded.
Typical repair cost, all makes€1 - €310
Connect any standard Bluetooth OBD2 adapter to your BMW and Skanyx tells you what P0160 means on that engine, whether it is safe to keep driving, and what the fix should cost. Free on iPhone and Android.
Get Skanyx freeWhat does P0160 mean on a BMW?
BMW 3 Series
2005-2013On the N52 and N54 the bank 2 downstream sensor serves the catalyst for cylinders 4-6. A flat signal from only this sensor, with the bank 1 downstream sensor still active, points to its own plug, wiring or element rather than the engine.
BMW 5 Series
2003-2010Bank 2 on the N62 V8 is cylinders 5-8, and its post-catalyst sensor is a separate part from the broadband sensor ahead of the catalyst. A flat signal from only the bank 2 downstream sensor, with the bank 1 downstream sensor still active, points to that sensor's own plug, wiring or element, so trace its lead to the right connector before testing.
What causes P0160 on a BMW?
Beyond the generic causes listed on the main P0160 page, these are the patterns noted for BMW models:
BMW 3 SeriesOpen circuit in the cylinder 4-6 downstream sensor or its wiring
BMW 3 SeriesLoose or corroded connector on the bank 2 downstream sensor
BMW 5 SeriesUnplugged or damaged connector on the bank 2 downstream sensor
BMW 5 SeriesInternal open circuit in the sensor
How to diagnose P0160 on a BMW with OBD2
Follow these steps to pinpoint the root cause of P0160:
- Confirm which sensor the code means before buying parts: Bank 2 is the cylinder bank that does not contain cylinder 1, and Sensor 2 is the one after the catalytic converter. Check the cylinder numbering for your engine in the service information, because the side of the car bank 2 sits on is not the same on every engine
- Read freeze frame data and check for companion heater codes (P0161, P0141) that would point to a power problem at the sensor
- Inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 2 connector for disconnection, corrosion, water intrusion or melted plastic, especially if exhaust or gearbox work was done recently
- Check live data for both downstream sensors. If the bank 1 downstream sensor is active and bank 2 is flat, the fault is in the bank 2 sensor or its own wiring, not the engine
- Use a multimeter at the sensor connector to verify ground, heater power (battery voltage with the key on) and signal continuity back to the engine computer
- If the wiring tests good, unplug the sensor and measure heater resistance directly. Healthy: 2-15 ohms. Open circuit: burned-out heater, and the sensor needs replacing
- If a new sensor still shows no activity, check the signal wire for opens or shorts between the sensor and the engine computer
How much does P0160 cost to fix on a BMW? (EUR)
Estimated repair costs for P0160 in EUR, compiled across makes. Expect BMW parts and labour towards the upper end of each range.
Prices estimated as of March 2026. Costs vary by region, vehicle, and shop.
Codes related to P0160
These codes are often seen alongside P0160 or point to related issues, on any make:
Looking for the full P0160 reference (all makes, full diagnosis flow, complete repair cost matrix)?
See the main P0160 guideSkanyx · BMW
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