Faulty temperature sensor integrated into the heated catalyst heater power switch.; Damaged or corroded wiring harness or connector at the bank 2 heated catalyst.; Open or short circuit in the sensor signal or ground circuit.; Failed heater power switch relay or control module affecting sensor power supply.; Engine control module (DME) internal fault, though rare.; Exhaust system modifications or damage that pinched the sensor wiring.

DTC codes / BMW codes / P1460

P1460 · BMWHeated Catalyst Heater Power Switch Temperature Sensor Electrical Bank 2

P1460 on BMW vehicles indicates that the engine control module (DME) has detected an electrical fault in the temperature sensor circuit of the heated catalyst heater power switch for bank 2. The sensor is responsible for monitoring the heater element's temperature, and the DME sets this code when the sensor signal is out of range, indicating an open, short, or implausible reading.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeBMW specific

SeverityLow

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaAuxiliary emission controls

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the check engine light (CEL) on the dashboard.
Often no symptoms besides the warning light, as the fault may not immediately affect driveability.
Possible slight decrease in fuel economy due to altered catalyst heating strategy.
In rare cases, a sulfur or rotten egg smell from the exhaust if the catalyst does not reach operating temperature.
Intermittent code setting if the sensor wiring is damaged and makes contact only over bumps.
No noticeable performance issues in most cases, as the primary catalyst still functions once warmed.

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty temperature sensor integrated into the heated catalyst heater power switch.
Damaged or corroded wiring harness or connector at the bank 2 heated catalyst.
Open or short circuit in the sensor signal or ground circuit.
Failed heater power switch relay or control module affecting sensor power supply.
Engine control module (DME) internal fault, though rare.
Exhaust system modifications or damage that pinched the sensor wiring.

How to diagnose and fix it

Perform a visual inspection of the bank 2 heated catalyst wiring and connector for damage, corrosion, or loose pins.
Use a scan tool to read live data for the heated catalyst temperature sensor to see if the reading is plausible when cold and after warm-up.
Check resistance of the temperature sensor with a multimeter and compare to BMW specifications; replace if out of range.
Test the sensor signal circuit for continuity and short to ground or power using a wiring diagram.
Inspect the heater power switch and relay for proper operation and replace if faulty.
If all external components test good, check for software updates or known issues with the DME, and reprogram if necessary.
Clear the code and verify the repair by performing a drive cycle that enables heated catalyst monitoring.

Common Misdiagnosis of P1460 on BMW

Technicians often replace the catalytic converter unnecessarily when the actual fault is a simple sensor or wiring issue, so always test the sensor circuit first.
The heated catalyst system is primarily for emissions reduction during cold starts, so a fault may not cause noticeable driveability problems, leading owners to ignore it.
Bank 2 refers to the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder 1; on inline-six BMW engines, bank 2 is typically the rear cylinders, so wiring access can be tight.
Corrosion inside the connector at the heated catalyst is a frequent cause, especially in regions with road salt, and can mimic a failed sensor.
A weak battery or charging system issue can cause intermittent sensor codes, so check battery voltage and ground connections before condemning parts.

Can I keep driving with P1460?

It is generally safe to continue driving with P1460, as the fault primarily affects cold-start emissions and does not compromise engine performance or safety. Avoid prolonged idling and schedule a diagnostic inspection soon to prevent potential catalytic converter damage from unburned fuel.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for BMW vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.