Drive with caution — fix soon.
P0133 means the front oxygen sensor on Bank 1 is switching between rich and lean too slowly for the computer's liking. A healthy sensor reacts quickly; a slow one is usually aged, contaminated, or coated with deposits. Replacing it restores accurate fuel control and helps your catalytic converter and fuel economy.
$150 – $450
Varies by vehicle and root cause.
Yes, it's generally safe to drive short-term, though you may use more fuel. Since the sensor is wearing out, plan to replace it before it fails completely.
Replacing the upstream oxygen sensor usually costs $150-$450 including labor, depending on your vehicle and the part used.
It's moderate. Your car remains drivable, but a slow sensor hurts fuel economy and emissions and tends to get worse over time.
Oxygen sensors age gradually. Contamination and deposits slow their reaction long before they stop working, which is exactly what P0133 detects.