P013D OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

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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.

An oxygen sensor for a particular engine bank delivers a voltage signal that is not within the accepted parameters, causing the PCM to store a trouble code and possibly illuminate the service engine soon light.

After the combustion process, the exhaust gases are being pushed into the exhaust manifold and downpipe where they flow over/through the upstream O2 sensor. Exhaust flows through the O2 sensor vent holes and across the sensing element where it is trapped in a small chamber in the centre of the sensor. The trapped ambient air is heated by the exhaust, forcing the oxygen ions to produce voltage.

When the rushing oxygen ions jump between the layers of the platinum electrodes, the fluctuation in voltage occurs. These variations in voltage are identified by the PCM as changes in exhaust oxygen concentration which indicate that the engine is either running lean (too little fuel) or rich (too much fuel). When more oxygen is present in the exhaust (lean condition), the voltage signal from the O2 sensor is low and is higher when less oxygen is present in the exhaust (rich condition). This data is used by the PCM to calculate fuel delivery and ignition timing strategy and also to monitor catalytic converter efficiency. If the O2 sensor in question fails to cycle as rapidly and/or regularly as expected, over a set period of time and under certain predetermined circumstances, a P013D code will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may be illuminated.

What causes the problem of O2 Sensor Slow Response – Lean to Rich (B2 S2)?

• Damaged or Faulty heated oxygen sensor
• Electrical connector at the oxygen sensor can be damaged or disconnected
• Faulty or shorted wiring in the oxygen sensor circuit
• Connection error with sensors due to blown fuses
• Exponential variance in the fuel pressure
• Excessive exhaust leaks and vacuum leaks on the engine
• Damaged catalytic converter due to debris accumulation
• Faulty ECU (Engine Control Unit) picking up wrong data

1. Heated Oxygen Sensor - The fault in the oxygen sensor leads to failure of the fuel delivery system, and engine control module. Replace faulty sensors immediately.
2. Engine Control Module - Faulty ECM may flash and store wrong OBD error and cause engine stalling and hard idles. Thus, replace faulty ECM immediately.
3. Powertrain Control Module - P013D error code also relates to problems with the PCM. This can cause improper engine and throttle response. Replace faulty PCM now.
4. Catalytic Converter - Catalytic converters at fault will lead to dropped fuel efficiency and performance along with increased emissions. Thus, replace faulty parts now!
5. Diagnostic Tool - Use professional scanning and diagnostic tools to detect the OBD error code. Buy from us now!
6. Mass Air Flow Sensor - Faulty MAF will be unable to read voltage fluctuation efficiently, thus indicating the PCM about its faults and flashing the OBD code P013D. Thus, replace it immediately.
7. Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor - It is important to measure the temperature of the gas emitted out form the combustion chamber to know about the oxygen levels and manage the functioning of catalytic converters and the fuel delivery system. Thus, replace if found faulty.
8. Fuel Pump - Right amount of fuel mixed with air is necessary to maximise engine output and reduced emissions from the exhaust. Thus, check for any damages and replace, if necessary.

Willing to know some common symptoms of OBD Code P013D? Your wish is our demand. Have a look at them below:

Common Symptoms

• Significant decrease in the fuel economy
• Engine stalling and not starting along with loss of power and response
• Rough idle and hard starting of the engine
• Carbon deposit build up impacting the spark plugs
• Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated

Replace the following components to correct the OBD code P013D if they are found faulty. But it’s important to do a proper inspection before doing such replacement.

• Oxygen sensor replacement
• Faulty fuel pump replacement
• Damaged wirings and connectors replacement
• Faulty PCM replacement 

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It is very important to use the correct tools to diagnose a problem with a very professional outlook. Each and every default component needs to be examined as the ECM sensor comes into play. Follow the following step by step analysis to do the diagnosis of error code P013D.

• 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 P013D, clear the code and perform a test drive under the same circumstances shown in the freeze frame data.
• If the P013D 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 2 Sensor 2 if the previous step is found to be okay.
• Check and test the ECM if the sensor checks out as under the rarest of chances it may be possible that ECM is faulty and needs replacement.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing OBD Code P013D

Never directly assume the Heated Oxygen Sensor is bad and needs replacement. The test procedure must be followed at all times to ensure that the wiring and other components are in good condition. Most of these problems are related to wiring touching the exhaust system. Always seek professional help to get the diagnosis as there might be many occasions where the diagnosis is much cheaper than perceived.