P0144 Fault on 2007 Mazda 6 2.3L: Valid Code or Misdiagnosis? O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1, Sensor 3)
Hello everyone, I'm experiencing an intermittent P0144 diagnostic trouble code on my 2007 Mazda 6 2.3L: 'O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1, Sensor 3)'. This is puzzling because the vehicle is equipped with only two oxygen sensors — one upstream and one downstream — not three as some sources suggest. The check engine light activates intermittently and then turns off after a few minutes. After checking the official service manual and reviewing multiple online forums, I've found that P0144 is not listed for this specific model year or trim. This raises concerns: Is this a misdiagnosis? Could it be a generic code triggered by an issue with the downstream O2 sensor despite the vehicle's design having only two sensors? I haven't performed any physical testing yet, as I need to wait for warmer weather to safely lift the car and inspect under the hood. I'm seeking input on whether this code could still point to a downstream O2 sensor fault or if it might be an incorrect reading due to software interpretation or emissions compliance settings. Any insights or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
If your Mazda 6 is CARB-compliant, bbbind.com indicates it may have three oxygen sensors. This could explain the presence of a P0144 code despite the standard two-sensor setup.