Thanks for the replies. But is this car ok (safe) to drive with the P1647 code until it can be repaired ?
Short history ~
it has 132,000 miles I just bought it 2 days ago no records but drive train seems to be strong. Drove it 200 miles. Next day I took a 15 minute drive. Turned it off for 10 minutes and when I turned it on it threw the P1647 code
Thanks

 

Fairly safe, briefly, but it may well be doing catalyst damage bit by bit because it dare not run lean (engine destroyer) so will run rich.

 

For those who don't recognize it, the code indicates heated oxygen sensor, bank B, failure. It takes 2 occurrences to light MIL, it neither lights amber or red dash warning light.

I think Jagv8 analyzed perfectly. It all revolves around the exorbitant cost of replacing a CAT.

John

 

Thanks to the people that responded to questions about if safe to drive and consequences if driven without repair.
Cost $200 USD with $92 for a decent new Denso sensor and $100 “tip” to mechanic that did job off work at my condo.
I had it repaired by local general auto mechanic after purchasing Denso correct part for $93 USD. It looked like an easy repair because the location of bad O2 sensor was on top.
He had to soak the old item with solvent to remove old sensor.
But to get to the sensor the following has to be done first.
1. Remove the small black coolant tank.
Space to get to sensor without screwing up something else wasn’t large enough.
2. Remove both wiper arms
3. Remove the black plastic unit that is below the wipers. 2 sections
4. Remove old sensor instal new one and check codes. No issues
No codes showing. Plenty in memory that show with a proper code reader. Not the $30 type of unit.