Theory Of Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 RAM 3500 HD and 2013 RAM 2500 HD. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

For the 02 Sensor to deliver accurate readings the sensing element must be heated. A Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) element inside the O2 Sensor heats up as current passes through it. This allows the system to enter Closed Loop quickly. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) turns on this circuit based on Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) and engine loads. During operation the heater circuit is momentarily disabled to allow a resistance measurement to be taken to infer heater temperature. The current delivery to the heater is duty cycled to maintain a specific target temperature. The error from the target temperature is continuously monitored to assess heater performance. If a malfunction occurs the circuit is turned off and a DTC will set.