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Code P2096 - 2005 Wrangler unlimited

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29K views 11 replies 8 participants last post by  Knuckelhead  
K
#1 ·
2005 Jeep Wrangler - I've had problems on and off with the check engine light. It passed inspection in June after getting 2 new O2 sensors (I guess there are 3). Light is back on and now it's throwing P2096 code. If the battery is disconnected for a while, it takes about 400 miles before the check engine light comes back on. I brought it in recently when there was about 350 miles (after disconnecting the battery), and at that point, they said there were no codes - shortly after, the light went back on. If I just reset the codes, the light comes back on in less than 100 miles.

I know the cause could be a lot of different things - some cheap to fix - others not so much. I am planning on selling the Wrangler, and at this point, I just want to know what's the worst case scenario cost wise, so I can factor it into how I price it. I will not be resetting the codes, so that potential buyers know that the light is on, and there is an issue - but was planning on just subtracting the cost of repair from what I would have asked. I asked my mechanic what's the most it could cost me, but he wasn't able to tell me. Does anyone have any ideas?

thanks a lot for your help,
kathleen
 
D
#2 ·
I have a 2005 LJ and have the same issue. It is a common issue with 2005 and 2006 Wranglers. I just replaced the entire exhaust system and still haven't fixed it.
 
#3 ·
P2096 means that the Post Catalyst Fuel Trim System Too Lean Bank 1 sensor 2. That would be the lower, front O2 sensor may need to be replaced.
You have 4 O2 sensors in your TJ exhaust system... HTH
 
T
#5 · (Edited)
Bank 1 sensor 2 would be the rear O2 sensor. The computer is basically measuring the difference between how much gas and air is going in, and how much is coming out of the exhaust. Assuming that the sensors that were put in are the right ones for whatever emissions system you have, I doubt that it's a problem with the sensors themselves. Usually the computer will pick up on a faulty or damaged sensor. Either there's a vacuum leak somewhere, an exhaust leak in front of those sensors (which you would probably hear) or it's not getting enough fuel. Could be a clogged fuel filter or fuel line, or even just bad gas that got pumped in there at some point. I'd bet on one of those things being the problem. Of course it could also be a wiring/computer problem or a fuel pump problem but if you have no other issues with the jeep, like hard starting, then I wouldn't think that that's the problem.
If you were inclined to fix it, I'd start with checking the fuel pressure and vacuum, and look for any exhaust leaks that are near the rear sensor. Fuel pressure should be around 58psi, any lower than 55psi and there's an issue somewhere. Could also just be the wrong sensor in there to begin with, or a cheap brand of sensor that's not as accurate as it needs to be.
 
#6 ·
#11 ·
Hey Kathleen,

TSB 18-028-06 may relate to your vehicle:

SUBJECT:
Flash: MIL Activation For Downstream Fuel Trim - DTC's P2096 or P2098
OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM) with new software.
MODELS:
2005 (TJ) Wrangler
NOTE: This bulletin applies to vehicles equipped with a 4.0L engine (sales code
ERH).
SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is illuminated and Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's)
P2096 or P2098 are stored.

Please let me know if you have any further questions.
 
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