What it means
ECU took longer than allowed to enter closed-loop control of fuel injection timing. Often slow sensor warm-up.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
The ECU uses sensor feedback to manage fuel-injection timing once the engine is warm enough for closed-loop control. P015E sets when it takes longer than the permitted time to begin that control, often because a required sensor or its heater warms too slowly.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Oxygen sensor or other required sensor warming up too slowly
- Sensor heater circuit fault
- Sensor wiring or connector problem
- Engine not reaching normal operating temperature
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Longer time before closed-loop operation
- Possible increased fuel use during warm-up
- Possible failed emissions test
How to diagnose it
- Read freeze-frame data and live data to confirm the engine temperature, warm-up time, and when closed-loop control begins.
- Check whether the engine reaches its normal operating temperature; a thermostat or cooling-system fault can delay the transition.
- Inspect the oxygen sensor and other required sensor connectors and wiring for looseness, corrosion, heat damage, or rubbing.
- Use live data to see whether the relevant sensor readings become active as the engine warms.
- Test the applicable sensor heater circuit and power supply against the manufacturer's specification.
Common fixes
- Repair a loose, corroded, or damaged sensor connector or wiring.
- Replace a failed heater fuse if the circuit uses one and determine why it failed.
- Repair the engine temperature fault if it is not reaching normal operating temperature.
- Replace a sensor whose heater or warm-up response fails testing.
Can I keep driving?
Usually the vehicle remains driveable, but prolonged warm-up operation can increase fuel use and emissions. Avoid unnecessary short trips and address it before an emissions inspection.
A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together
This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.