P0131 on 2012-2016 Chevrolet Sonic — O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1, Sensor 1)
1 vehicles · 1 makes · $50-$500 repair
Most Reported On
P0131 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1, Sensor 1).” This code means the upstream oxygen (O2) sensor on Bank 1, Sensor 1 — located before the catalytic converter — is reporting an abnormally low voltage, which the computer reads as a persistently lean exhaust (too much oxygen). The computer uses this sensor to fine-tune the air-fuel mixture, and a stuck-low signal disrupts that feedback. The low reading can come from an actual lean condition in the engine or from a faulty sensor or its wiring. Symptoms may include rough running, hesitation, and reduced fuel economy. This code is most commonly reported on 2012-2016 Chevrolet Sonic, with repair costs ranging from $50 to $500.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 1 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
To diagnose P0131, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).
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BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
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- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner
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A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.
- Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
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- AutoVIN for vehicle identification
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Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool
by Autel
Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.
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- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
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FAQ
What does P0131 mean?
P0131 stands for "O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1, Sensor 1)." This code means the upstream oxygen (O2) sensor on Bank 1, Sensor 1 — located before the catalytic converter — is reporting an abnormally low voltage, which the computer reads as a persistently lean exhaust (too much oxygen). The computer uses this sensor to fine-tune the air-fuel mixture, and a stuck-low signal disrupts that feedback. The low reading can come from an actual lean condition in the engine or from a faulty sensor or its wiring. Symptoms may include rough running, hesitation, and reduced fuel economy.
What are the most common causes of P0131?
The most common causes of P0131 are: Vacuum or intake air leak (true lean condition), Failed or contaminated upstream O2 sensor, Exhaust leak ahead of the sensor, Low fuel pressure or weak/clogged fuel injectors, Corroded or loose O2 sensor connector, Damaged or shorted-to-ground sensor wiring, Dirty mass airflow sensor skewing fuel trims, Faulty PCM/ECM (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0131?
Repair costs for P0131 range from $50 to $500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0131?
Au7o has documented P0131 across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Chevrolet.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.