P0135 on the 2022 Ford Maverick
The 2022 Ford Maverick comes with two powertrain options: a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder hybrid (191 hp combined) as standard, and an available 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder (250 hp). A P0135 code on either engine indicates the upstream O2 sensor heater circuit has malfunctioned. Both are inline-four engines with a single exhaust bank and one upstream O2 sensor.
Hybrid vs. EcoBoost Considerations
The heater circuit challenge differs between the two engines. The hybrid Maverick cycles its gasoline engine on and off like a Prius, placing the O2 sensor heater under a more demanding duty cycle. The heater must maintain sensor readiness during electric-only operation, meaning it runs more continuously than on the non-hybrid. The 2.0L EcoBoost, meanwhile, adds turbocharger heat that creates a more thermally stressful environment for the sensor but uses a conventional always-on duty cycle.
Common Causes
- Heater element failure (High Likelihood): On the hybrid, the demanding duty cycle of frequent engine cycling stresses the heater element more than conventional driving. On the EcoBoost, the turbo-adjacent location generates extreme heat. Either way, the Motorcraft sensor heater coil is the most likely failure point at two to three years old.
- Hybrid-specific heater cycling stress (Medium Likelihood - Hybrid only): Like the Toyota Prius, the Maverick hybrid cycles its engine frequently. The O2 sensor heater activates and deactivates with each engine cycle, creating accelerated wear on the heater coil compared to the EcoBoost model.
- Blown heater fuse (Medium Likelihood): The underhood power distribution box contains the O2 heater fuse. Quick to check and free to diagnose.
- Wiring or connector issue (Low-Medium Likelihood): The compact unibody truck's engine bay is tightly packaged. Heat from the exhaust manifold or turbo can degrade wiring insulation. Inspect the sensor connector for corrosion from road spray.
Diagnosis
Warranty Coverage
The 2022 Maverick is within the 8-year/80,000-mile federal emissions warranty. Both the hybrid and EcoBoost O2 sensors are covered components. Visit your Ford dealer for a free repair.
Hybrid Model Specifics
On the 2.5L hybrid, the gasoline engine does not run continuously. Use a scan tool to monitor O2 sensor heater status during engine-on periods. The heater should maintain sensor temperature even during brief engine-off phases to ensure instant readiness when the engine restarts. Abnormal heater current patterns during engine transitions help pinpoint the issue.
EcoBoost Model Specifics
On the 2.0L EcoBoost, the sensor is near the turbocharger. Check the turbo-area wiring for heat damage in addition to the standard fuse and resistance tests. The EcoBoost follows conventional diagnostic procedures.
Repair Costs
Under warranty: free. Out of pocket: Motorcraft sensor $60 to $130, shop labor $90 to $160. Total: $150 to $290. DIY is moderately challenging on the Maverick due to the compact unibody engine bay. The 22mm O2 sensor socket and about 30 to 45 minutes will get the job done.
Maverick Efficiency
The Maverick hybrid achieves up to 42 mpg city, making it the most fuel-efficient truck available. A failed O2 sensor heater undermines this efficiency during every engine restart from EV mode. The EcoBoost model at up to 30 mpg highway is also affected during cold starts. For a truck chosen for its economy, fixing P0135 under warranty preserves the cost-of-ownership advantage that makes the Maverick compelling. The fuel savings from a properly functioning sensor can be significant over months of daily commuting.