What it means
Same as P242E on bank 2 sensor 5. Wiring faults of this kind typically come from chafing, water ingress at connector seals, or pin push-back — a wiggle test on the harness while the code is active often confirms the location.
At a glance
- Usually lights the check-engine light
- Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test
How it works
Bank 2 sensor 5 measures exhaust gas temperature at a specific point in the exhaust system, and the engine controller monitors its signal for continuity. This code sets when that sensor circuit's signal becomes erratic or drops in and out, often as the harness or connector moves with vibration.
Common causes
Most likely first.
- Intermittent contact at connector
- Connector with intermittent contact under vibration
- Harness routed against vibrating component
Symptoms
- Check-engine light on
How to diagnose it
- Save freeze-frame data and check live data for bank 2 sensor 5, noting whether its reading jumps or disappears when the fault occurs.
- With the exhaust cool, inspect the sensor connector and nearby wiring for chafing, moisture, damaged seals, or pins pushed back in the connector.
- If the fault is present, gently move the bank 2 sensor 5 harness while watching its live reading to see whether movement reproduces the dropout.
- Check the connector terminals for looseness or corrosion and verify continuity through the sensor wiring while flexing the harness.
- Test the sensor and circuit against the manufacturer's specifications, then inspect the controller connection only if the sensor and wiring pass.
Common fixes
- Secure the bank 2 sensor 5 harness away from vibrating or hot components.
- Repair chafed or broken wiring in the sensor circuit.
- Clean or repair the connector and replace damaged seals or terminals.
- Replace the bank 2 sensor 5 if it fails testing.
Can I keep driving?
With only the check-engine light reported, the vehicle may remain drivable, but the fault can interfere with exhaust temperature monitoring and emissions control. Avoid ignoring a flashing warning or new drivability symptoms, and repair the intermittent fault promptly.
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.