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P2278: O2 Sensor Signals Swapped Bank 1 Sensor 3/Bank 2 Sensor 3

Severity
Low
NHTSA Reports
3
Vehicles Affected
1
System
Powertrain

What Does P2278 Mean?

P2278 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: O2 Sensor Signals Swapped Bank 1 Sensor 3/Bank 2 Sensor 3. This code relates to the powertrain system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 1 different vehicle models.

Symptoms of P2278

Common Causes

P2278 Reports by Year

2016
2
2018
1

Real Owner Reports

From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.

"I HAVE EXPERIENCED LOSS OF POWER STREERING AND HAVE A DASHBOARD ALERT. COMPUTER TESTING STATES THE P2278 STREERING TORQUIE ANGLE SENSOR NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THE SYMPTOMS ARE THE SAME AS THE FORD 14S05 RECALL: SUMMARY: FORD MOTOR COMPANY (FORD) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2011 FORD "

— Ford Escape owner, 02/15/2016

"I HAD RECALL FOR ELECTRIC POWER STEERING COMPLETED IN DECEMBER 2015, AND THEN IN JANUARY 2016 MY STEERING WHEEL STARTED VIBRATING/LOCKING. IN APRIL POWER STEERING WENT COMPLETELY OUT. I TOOK VEHICLE IN AND ASKED IF POWER STEERING WAS RELATED TO THE RECALL AND HE SAID NO IT WAS A SEPARATE SENSOR THAT"

— Ford Escape owner, 04/04/2016

"EXPERIENCED POWER STEERING CUTTING OUT INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVING, ESPECIALLY WHEN PARKING. WHEN THIS OCCURRED, VEHICLE WAS DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER AT SPEEDS LESS THAN 15 MPH. DEALER NOTES "REPLACED STEERING TORQUE ANGLE SENSOR" FOR CODE P2278. VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL OF 2008-2011 FORD ESCAPE"

— Ford Escape owner, 12/17/2018

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

Most Reported Vehicles for P2278

Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.

# Vehicle Reports
1 FORD ESCAPE

P2278 Reports by Vehicle

Detailed NHTSA complaint analysis for each vehicle model.

FORD ESCAPE
3 NHTSA reports · Peak: 2008, 2009

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with this code?
It depends on the severity. If the vehicle runs normally, short trips are usually OK. If you notice performance issues, drivability problems, or warning lights beyond the check engine light, get it checked soon.
Will this code clear itself?
Some codes clear automatically after the underlying issue is fixed and several drive cycles pass. But the root cause must be addressed first.
How do I find the exact cause?
A code alone doesn't pinpoint the failed part. You need a diagnostic scan ($50-150 at most shops) that reads freeze frame data and live sensor readings to identify the specific component.

What To Do Next

Possible Fixes

  • 🔧 Have the code scanned with a professional-grade scanner to read freeze frame data
  • 🔧 Test the relevant sensor(s) with a multimeter before replacing
  • 🔧 If DIY repair isn't feasible, get a diagnostic from a trusted mechanic ($50-150)
  1. 1
    Find your vehicle above

    Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.

  2. 2
    Check for recalls

    Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.

  3. 3
    Get a professional diagnosis

    A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.

Related Codes

P2200 NOx Sensor Circuit Bank 1 Sensor 1 P2201 NOx Sensor Circuit Range/Performance Bank 1 Sensor 1 P2202 NOx Sensor Circuit Low Bank 1 Sensor 1 P2203 NOx Sensor Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 1 P2204 NOx Sensor Circuit Intermittent Bank 1 Sensor 1 P2205 NOx Sensor Heater Control Circuit/Open Bank 1 Sensor 1 P2206 NOx Sensor Heater Control Circuit Low Bank 1 Sensor 1 P2207 NOx Sensor Heater Control Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 1 P2208 NOx Sensor Heater Sense Circuit Bank 1 Sensor 1 P2209 NOx Sensor Heater Sense Circuit Range/Performance Bank 1 Sensor 1