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DTC codes / Honda codes / P1164

P1164 · HondaHO2S11 Circuit Fault Bank 1 Sensor 1

P1164 on a Honda means the powertrain control module has detected an abnormal condition in the circuit for the primary heated oxygen sensor on bank 1, sensor 1, which is the upstream sensor ahead of the catalytic converter. The computer monitors the sensor's signal and heater circuit and flags this code when the voltage or current falls outside the expected range during its self-test.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeHonda specific
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaFuel and air metering

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other symptoms noticed by the driver
  • A noticeable drop in fuel economy because the engine defaults to a richer, less precise fuel mixture
  • Rough idle or hesitation during acceleration as the computer loses accurate air-fuel ratio feedback
  • Failed emissions inspection due to the oxygen sensor monitor not completing or reporting a fault
  • In rare cases, a sulfur or rotten-egg smell from the exhaust if the mixture stays rich for too long

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Failed upstream heated oxygen sensor (HO2S) element or its internal heater circuit
  2. Damaged or corroded wiring between the sensor and the powertrain control module, often from heat or oil contamination
  3. Loose or contaminated sensor connector pins causing an intermittent open or high resistance
  4. Blown fuse or relay supplying power to the oxygen sensor heater circuit
  5. Exhaust leak ahead of the sensor introducing false air and skewing the signal
  6. PCM internal fault on the oxygen sensor input circuit, though this is the least common cause

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Inspect the sensor connector and wiring for corrosion, chafing, or oil intrusion, and clean or repair as needed
  2. Check the oxygen sensor heater fuse and relay, and verify power and ground at the sensor connector with the key on
  3. Measure the heater element resistance at the sensor and compare it to the Honda specification for your engine
  4. Perform a voltage drop test on the sensor signal wire and ground circuit to rule out high resistance in the harness
  5. Check for exhaust leaks between the cylinder head and the upstream sensor using a smoke test or visual inspection
  6. Replace the upstream HO2S with a Honda-approved sensor if electrical tests confirm the sensor is out of specification
  7. Clear the code and complete a drive cycle to verify the oxygen sensor monitor passes and the code does not return

What Honda Techs Check Before Swapping the Sensor

  • A P1164 is often set by a lazy or contaminated sensor that still switches voltage but too slowly for the PCM's response test, so a simple voltage sweep can look normal while the sensor is actually failing.
  • Oil or coolant leaking into the connector from a failed gasket or sensor seal can cause this code without any sensor fault, so always inspect the harness for fluid intrusion before condemning the part.
  • Honda's oxygen sensor heater circuit is powered through a fuse that also feeds other components, so a blown fuse may set P1164 alongside other codes and should be checked first.
  • An exhaust leak at the manifold or downpipe can pull in outside air and make the sensor report a lean condition that the PCM interprets as a circuit fault, so a smoke test is a quick and cheap verification step.
  • After replacing the sensor, the PCM may need a relearn or a specific drive cycle to complete the oxygen sensor monitor, and skipping this step can leave the code stored even though the repair is correct.

Can I keep driving with P1164?

You can usually drive the vehicle with this code, but avoid heavy acceleration or towing because the engine may run rich and damage the catalytic converter over time. Have the fault diagnosed soon, especially if you notice rough running or a drop in fuel economy.

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 Honda vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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