Error Code P0044: What It Means & What To Do?

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Oftentimes, Engine Warning Light turns up almost immediately it senses the OBD code error. This directly impacts the engine performance as it struggles with power and acceleration as well as failed fuel system causing increased consumption of fuel by the engine.

P0044 is a specific code that is set when high voltage is found in the heater control circuit.

P0044 is set by the engine control unit (ECU) when excessively high voltage is found for the heater control circuit on bank 1 sensor 3. This high voltage creates an inaccurate reading from the heated oxygen sensor causing the ECU to turn on the Check Engine Light.

Oxygen sensors with a heating element are common on today's engines. Heated oxygen sensors (HO2S) are inputs used by the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) to determine oxygen content in the exhaust system.

The oxygen sensors check for the amount of oxygen present in the air as it leaves the combustion chamber of the engine. This sensor is equipped with a heater circuit to activate the sensor fast and transmit the information to the PCM quickly and efficiently. This helps the PCM to control the emissions during cold start.

What causes the problem of Heater Control Circuit High (B1 S3)?

• Failure of Heated oxygen sensor bank 1 sensor 3
• Open/short/damaged wiring to ground
• Heated oxygen sensor poor connections
• Error in the Engine Control Unit
• Short to ground Heater Control Circuit
• Short to battery voltage in the Heater Control Circuit

1. Heated Oxygen Sensor - The fault in the oxygen sensor leads to failure of the fuel delivery system, and ECM. Replace faulty sensors immediately.
2. Heated Oxygen Sensor Harness - If the sensor harness is damaged, it can cause improper engine performance and faulty throttle response. Thus, replace with the new one. Buy now!
3. Heated Oxygen Sensor Connector - A damage Oxygen Sensor Connector can read and transmit wrong information that will affect the engine output and storing the OBD error code in the PCM. Replace your faulty sensor connectors now!
4. Heater Circuit Fuse - Damaged Heater Circuit Fuse affects the functioning of the oxygen sensors. Visit us for quality fuses and parts.
5. Engine Control Module - Faulty ECM may flash and store wrong OBD error and cause engine stalling and hard idles. Thus, replace faulty ECM immediately.
6. Powertrain Control Module - P0044 error code also relates to problems with the PCM. This can cause wrong reading being stored in the PCM from the sensor. Replace faulty PCM now.
7. Catalytic Converter - Catalytic converters at fault will lead to increased emissions. Thus, replace faulty parts now!
8. Diagnostic Tool - Use professional scanning and diagnostic tools to detect the OBD error code. Buy from us now!
9. Exhaust System - A leaky or damaged exhaust can hamper the vehicle’s performance. Thus, replace damaged exhaust parts now. 

The vehicle's ECU runs checks on sensors multiple times a second. When the ECU finds high voltage in the Bank 1 Sensor 3, it causes a Check Engine Light to illuminate. This results in wrong readings from the heated oxygen sensor. It can also lead to vehicle running poorly and a decrease in fuel efficiency along with frequent stalling and increased emissions.

• Replace Heated oxygen sensor bank 1 sensor 3
• Repair/replace open and/or shorted wiring
• Repair/replace faulty ECU
• Check for faulty connections
• Replacement of blown fuses

At Parts Avatar Canada, find the best quality replacement and performance parts at the best price in the market to correctly diagnose the OBD Code P0044 error.

• Use a professional grade diagnostic scan tool to check for all codes present (must be used to show live sensor data).
• Observe and take note of any freeze frame data that is associated with the code along with the current collected data after the test drive.
• After the confirmation of P0044, clear the code and perform a test drive under the same circumstances shown in the freeze frame data.
• If the P0044 code returns, visual inspection is performed to check the integrity of the wiring and sensor.
• Scan with a tool used to monitor live data from Bank 1 Sensor 3 if the previous step is found to be okay.
• Check and test the ECU if the sensor checks out as under the rarest of chances it may be possible that ECU is faulty and needs replacement.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing OBD Code P0044

Never directly assume the Heated Oxygen Sensor is bad and needs replacement. Follow the diagnostic steps and ensure that the wiring and other components are in good condition. Always seek professional help to get the diagnosis.