P0042 – BMW DTC

BMW DTC P0042 – HO2S Heater Control Circuit (Bank 1 Sensor 3)

DTC P0042 meaning on BMW

DTC P0042 for BMW refers to an issue with the HO2S (Heated Oxygen Sensor) Heater Control Circuit for Bank 1 Sensor 3. This diagnostic trouble code indicates that there is a malfunction in the heater circuit of the oxygen sensor located in Bank 1 Sensor 3 of the vehicle.

BMW DTC P0042 symptoms

Symptoms of DTC P0042 on a BMW may include:

  • Check Engine Light illuminated on the dashboard
  • Possible decrease in fuel efficiency
  • Engine may run rough or hesitate

BMW DTC P0042 causes

Common causes of DTC P0042 on a BMW include:

  • Faulty oxygen sensor heater
  • Wiring or connector issues in the heater circuit
  • Blown fuse related to the oxygen sensor heater

BMW DTC P0042 seriousness

While DTC P0042 may not cause immediate drivability issues, it is important to address this problem promptly. Ignoring this fault can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and potential long-term damage to the vehicle’s emissions system.

How to diagnose DTC P0042 on BMW

To diagnose DTC P0042 on a BMW, you can follow these steps:

  1. Use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the specific fault code.
  2. Inspect the wiring and connectors related to Bank 1 Sensor 3.
  3. Check the fuse associated with the oxygen sensor heater.
  4. Test the resistance of the oxygen sensor heater to determine if it is faulty.

How to fix DTC P0042 on BMW

To fix DTC P0042 on a BMW, you can try the following solutions:

  1. Replace the faulty oxygen sensor heater.
  2. Repair any damaged wiring or connectors in the heater circuit.
  3. Replace the blown fuse if necessary.

How to erase DTC P0042 on BMW

To erase DTC P0042 on a BMW, you can clear the fault code using an OBD-II scanner. After addressing the underlying issue causing the fault code, you can reset the Check Engine Light and clear the diagnostic trouble code from the vehicle’s memory.

Recommended tools & DTC Scanners for BMW

Best Diagnostic App for modern BMWs: BimmerLink

Recommended Bluetooth adapter for Bimmerlink: OBDLink CX

Cable adapter for Bimmerlink: Enet Cable USB Type C

For older BMWs we recommend: Autel AutoLink AL319 (2024 version)

Easy-to-use Multimeter for reliable diagnostics: AstroAI Auto-ranging Multimeter

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