P0031 code fixed

Discuss any problems, warranty, repair, or replacement issues you are having with your Vibe & Matrix
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MrSkellington
Posts: 1
Joined: Wed Jan 15, 2014 8:44 pm

P0031 code fixed

Post by MrSkellington »

Before I go into my P0031 code I'd like to briefly introduce myself and thank the members of this forum for the great info found here. My name is Shawn and I own two base Vibes, an 05 and an 03.

After getting a new PCM which was covered by a recall my 05 Vibes remaining trouble codes pointed me to the "O2 sensors" (AFR sensors). This site had a great how-to thread with pictures so I proceeded to replace the sensors without difficulty. However I was still left with a P0031 code after installing two new sensors.

After literally going over every inch of wiring and fuse on the car I went back to my PC, specifically this site, only to see a few old comments about how Toyotas are fickle with these parts and seldom work unless the OE is used. Unfortunately I used inexpensive Bosch o2 sensors which were listed for my car. As a side note Bosch should be ashamed to make that claim since they did 'fit' but didn't work.

To wrap this up I shelled out an absurd $160 for an upstream Denso direct fit sensor and the P0031 code was gone. Car passed inspection the next day. So a P0031 code = buy the expensive Denso sensor.
lannvouivre
Posts: 1601
Joined: Thu Jun 09, 2011 1:00 pm
Location: Texas yay

Re: P0031 code fixed

Post by lannvouivre »

Some aftermarket parts work, many don't. When I worked at a local shop, I replaced an alternator on a Mazda twice with remanufactured ones (the reman from Mazda was $3-400) from whatever Napa or O'reilly brand, and both failed within a week. The third time, my boss said enough is enough and got the Mazda reman, which was actually done via Mitsubishi electric. The first thing I noticed when I pulled it out of the box was that it was beautiful and looked brand new. The others had just looked repainted.

That was about 6 months ago, and that guy hasn't been back. (Thankfully; pulling an alternator from under a car is a pain when you have short arms).

As for aftermarket, I try to hunt for complaints about the brand I'm looking at. I looked at Tokico, MOOG, and DC Sports before I got their products.
"If you don't love me at my diddliest, you don't deserve me at my doodliest." - User ktluvscricket of reddit
Salsa Guy
Posts: 1775
Joined: Thu Oct 07, 2010 10:46 pm
Location: Greater Tulsa Area

Re: P0031 code fixed

Post by Salsa Guy »

You can buy DENSO direct fit much cheaper online. They run about $80 shipped. Now the 1zz FWD Upstream sensors between the DBC and DBW cars are different. The DBC is an O2 and the DBW is an AFR
05 Matrix XR 4WD and 03 Vibe GT
"If you want Government to solve your problems, then you are the problem!" BMSR
Trix MODS: SRI w/ AEM filter, Vibrant/Magnaflow Cat-back, Alutec Lightweight Crank Pulley
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