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P2248 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

OBD Code P2248 - O2 Sensor Reference Voltage Performance Bank 2 Sensor 1

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Improper fuel-air ratios can lead to loss of engine power, loss of acceleration and stalling as well as rough idle problems along with check engine light illuminating. This can be due to P2248 error indicating problem with oxygen sensor.

Learn More About OBD Error Code P2248

Each oxygen sensor is threaded (or studded) into an exhaust pipe. It is situated so that the sensing element is near the center of the pipe. As spent exhaust gases exit the combustion chamber (via the exhaust manifold) and continue through the exhaust system (including catalytic converters), they flow over the oxygen sensors. Exhaust gases enter the oxygen sensor through specially designed vent holes in the steel housing and swirl around the sensing element. Swirling ambient air is drawn through wire lead cavities in the sensor housing where they fill a tiny chamber in the middle. The air (in the tiny chamber) is then heated. This forces the oxygen ions to produce energy that is recognized by the PCM as voltage.


Variations between the number of oxygen ions in ambient air (drawn into the O2 sensor), and the number of oxygen molecules in the exhaust, cause the oxygen ions inside the O2 sensor to bounce from one platinum layer to the other, very swiftly and repetitively. As the surging oxygen ions shift between platinum layers, variations in oxygen sensor output voltage occur. The PCM sees these variations in oxygen sensor output voltage as changes in exhaust oxygen concentration. Voltage signal outputs from the oxygen sensors are lower when more oxygen is present in the exhaust (lean condition) and higher when less oxygen is present in the exhaust (rich condition). If the PCM detects an electrical voltage in the oxygen sensor reference voltage circuit that is outside the normal expected range of performance, a code P2248 will be stored and a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may be illuminated. Most vehicles will require multiple ignition cycles (with a failure) for MIL illumination.


What causes this problem with the O2 Sensor Reference Voltage Performance Bank 2 Sensor 1?


  • Failure of Bank 2 Sensor 1
  • O2 Sensor wiring open/short/damaged
  • Open circuit inside Oxygen Sensor or open/ground wires to Bank 2 Sensor 1
  • Corroded or Broken Exhaust System ground strap
  • Rare ECU(Engine Control Unit) failure
  • PCM/ECM or Oxygen Sensor Heater Circuit wiring failed

Replace/Repair These Parts To Fix OBD Code P2248

  1. Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve - Did you just see check engine light flashing on your dashboard? If the computer would detect some fault with the automobile’s EGR valve circuit, then it would set up the check engine light so that the driver is notified about the fault. Don’t waste time and get them replaced or else this fault code can turn up.
  2. Engine Control Module - Most of the time it is difficult to intercept the ECM faults and thus must be checked for thoroughly. There can be a problem with the circuit or the software might have malfunctioned. Thus repair, replace or reprogram the component as per requirement.
  3. Powertrain Control Module - If the PCM is faulty, it can stores wrong OBD codes and can lead to misdiagnoses. This can happen due to misinterpretation of data received from the various sensors and components which also affects the vehicle’s performance. Thus replace it immediately.
  4. Fuel Injector - Affected fuel injectors can cause reduced performance and throttle response. It can also affect the fuel economy and affect the engine emission. Thus, replace faulty fuel injector now!
  5. Diesel Exhaust Fluid Pump - The diesel exhaust fluid pump needs to work properly if the transmission system has to perform. If it is not functioning, the transmission may slip and cause harsh shifts too. Thus replace faulty pump now and buy a new one from us!
  6. Electronic Control Unit - If the ECU is at fault, it will not be able to read the boost converter temperatures correctly leading to under performance. Thus, replace faulty ECU now!
  7. Diagnostic Tool - Choose from our diagnostic tools collection that will come handy to detect and correct the OBD error code.
  8. Mass Air Flow Sensor - Any problem with the MAF sensor can affect the engine performance and the system will not be able to manage the air to fuel ratio properly. Buy new MAF sensor now!
  9. Throttle Position Sensor - If the TPS is damaged or faulty, it will result in loss of engine power and acceleration along with reduced fuel economy. Replace it immediately, if faulty.
  10. Catalytic Converter - If the catalytic converter is damaged, it will affect the fuel delivery and the air intake system respectively. Also it may result in increased emission from the exhaust. Thus, it becomes important to replace faulty catalytic converter immediately.
  11. Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor - MAP sensor at fault can cause increased fuel consumption, lack of power and failing an emission test. Thus, replace it now!
  12. Oxygen Sensor - Faulty O2 sensor affects the performance output, but also affects the fuel economy, exhaust emissions and acceleration. Thus, a faulty oxygen sensor must be replaced as if it important for keeping in check the oxygen levels entering/exiting the engine.

Symptoms Of OBD Error Code P2248

If you are facing OBD error code P2248, then there are significant common symptoms that can be felt or observed. We have worked out a list here to help you out in understanding this problem better.


Common Symptoms


  • Affected fuel efficiency
  • Lack of engine performance
  • Check Engine Light illumination
  • Engine stalling
  • Reduced acceleration and power

How To Correct P2248 O2 Sensor Reference Voltage Performance Bank 2 Sensor 1

It is very important to fix the fault code P2248. So here are some ways with which you can correct this issue:


  • Clean the MAF (Mass Airflow Sensor) with a safe electronic cleaner, if dirty.
  • Replace MAF (Mass Airflow Sensor), if found faulty.
  • Replacement of damaged MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor)
  • Check for any vacuum pump and air intake pipe leakages/damages
  • Replace faulty/broken/open/short wiring and connectors to the oxygen sensors and circuits

However, if you face any issue then we have stocked a wide range of best priced Oxygen Sensor, Exhaust Manifold, Ecm, Pcm, Exhaust Leak and more to help you out in fixing your car.

Easy Diagnosis Of Engine Error OBD Code P2248

If you want to easily diagnose this fault code, then all you have to do is to follow the steps which are mentioned below:


  • Take the help of a qualified technician to use a scan tool and confirm whether P2248 is present.
  • Find and freeze frame data with the code. Then, clear the code.
  • Take the vehicle on a test drive under the same conditions.
  • If the code reappears, perform a visual inspection of the bank 2 sensor 1 and its wiring. Also check the wiring on both oxygen sensors for damaged/broken wiring, swapped connectors, or wiring shorted to ground or power.
  • If the wiring is okay, the sensor itself will be tested to confirm operation. Upstream O2 sensor data should fluctuate regularly between 1-millivolt (.100-volts) and 9-millivolts (.900-olts), if the engine is running efficiently.
  • If the O2 Sensor is functioning properly, the technician must check the Engine Control Unit for any faults and damages. 

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P2248 code


Always take professional help and follow the diagnosis instructions properly before coming to a conclusion or simply replacing the sensor first.


  • Replacing PCM, without checking other components for faults
  • Replacing Heated Oxygen Sensor directly
  • Not inspecting faulty wiring and connections

Other Diagnostic Codes Related To OBD Code P2248

P2247 - O2 Sensor Reference Voltage Circuit/Open Bank 2 Sensor 1

P2249 - O2 Sensor Reference Voltage Circuit Low Bank 2 Sensor 1

P2250 - O2 Sensor Reference Voltage Circuit High Bank 2 Sensor 1