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P0146MinorEmissions

P0146 on 2022 Buick Encore — O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1, Sensor 3)

1 vehicles · 1 makes

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Most Reported On

2022Buick Encore

P0146 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1, Sensor 3).” The PCM detects no signal activity (flat voltage) from the Bank 1, Sensor 3 O2 sensor, indicating it is not switching — often a dead sensor or open circuit at the rearmost post-catalyst position. This code is most commonly reported on 2022 Buick Encore.

On This Page

  • Common Causes
  • Vehicles (1)
  • Related Codes
  • FAQ
  • Sources (1)
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Common Causes

1Failed Bank 1 Sensor 3 O2 sensor
2Open signal or ground circuit
3Disconnected connector
4Blown sensor heater
5Exhaust leak affecting readings

Diagnostic Tools

To diagnose P0146, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.

Budget Pick$10–$20

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+).

  • Read & clear engine codes
  • View freeze frame data
  • I/M readiness status
  • No batteries or app needed
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Best Value$90–$120

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)
  • Repair Reports with verified fixes
  • Smog check readiness
  • Free app (iOS & Android)
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Advanced$180–$230

LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner

by LAUNCH

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
  • Live data stream & graphing
  • AutoVIN for vehicle identification
  • Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
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Professional$350–$450

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.

  • All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
  • Bi-directional control & active tests
  • Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
  • 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
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Vehicles Affected (1)

Buick P0146 page →
EncoreMinor

EVAP Purge Pump Can Fail (Special Coverage N242484740)

20220 reports

Related Codes (8)

P0140O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1, Sensor 2)P0141O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1, Sensor 2)P0142O2 Sensor Circuit (Bank 1, Sensor 3)P0143O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1, Sensor 3)01447EVAP System (VAG)P0030HO2S Heater Control Circuit (Bank 1 Sensor 1)P0031HO2S Heater Control Circuit Low (Bank 1 Sensor 1)P0032HO2S Heater Control Circuit High (Bank 1 Sensor 1)

FAQ

What does P0146 mean?

P0146 stands for "O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1, Sensor 3)." The PCM detects no signal activity (flat voltage) from the Bank 1, Sensor 3 O2 sensor, indicating it is not switching — often a dead sensor or open circuit at the rearmost post-catalyst position.

What are the most common causes of P0146?

The most common causes of P0146 are: Failed Bank 1 Sensor 3 O2 sensor, Open signal or ground circuit, Disconnected connector, Blown sensor heater, Exhaust leak affecting readings. The specific cause varies by vehicle.

How much does it cost to fix P0146?

Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause and vehicle.

Which vehicles are affected by P0146?

Au7o has documented P0146 across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Buick.

Sources (1)

  • TSBGM Special Coverage N242484740 - Evaporative Emissions Purge Pump
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.

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