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Symptoms of a Bad Oxygen Sensor

The oxygen (O2) sensor is one of the most important parts of your vehicle’s emission-control setup. But do you know what your O2 sensor actually does?

oxygen sensor

The engine control computer in your vehicle has to know the composition of exhaust gasses being produced in order to make appropriate calculations on fuel metering, fuel delivery, and timing. The O2 sensor is mounted in the exhaust stream, and measures the oxygen content of the exhaust gases and compares it to the oxygen proportion in the ambient air. It then sends that information to the engine computer. 
 

 

How Long O2 Sensors Last

 

Like most machinery in your vehicle, your oxygen sensor won't last forever. Back in the day, O2 sensors could last only an hour. Today, O2 sensors typically last anywhere between 40-100,000 miles depending on the year of the vehicle. New vehicles’ O2 sensors will last much longer than older models. 

 

Signs Your O2 Sensor Has Failed 

Over time, your O2 sensor can become soiled with carbon and soot deposits, or the element simply gets old and wears down and needs to be replaced. O2 sensors can also become soiled from the grease of lubricants which may make their way into the exhaust stream. Any oil/coolant that seeps into the combustion chambers can also soil the O2 sensor. If the oxygen sensor is too worn out, there will be a lag response time or it will just stop working altogether. 

 

How Do I Know if I Have a Bad Oxygen Sensor?

check engine light

A key indicator that something is wrong with your oxygen sensor is if the check engine light comes on. However, some other indicators of a faulty oxygen sensor include:
  •   Poor fuel economy
  •   Loss of power
  •   Black smoke from the tailpipe
  •   Failed emissions test
  •   Rough idle
  •   Hesitation or stalling 
 
 
It should be noted that these symptoms could be caused by a variety of other problems as well, but if you do experience them, you should bring your vehicle to any one of our 13 tire shops and one of our technicians can read the trouble code to find the issue. 
 
 
 

 

Ways to Prolong the Life of O2 Sensors

With bad habits come bad oxygen sensors. There are ways to make sure you get the most out of your O2 sensor, primarily making sure it is set up correctly from the start. Review all wiring and mounting to ensure nothing is amiss. Avoid silicones coming into contact with your sensor, as it can negatively impact performance. Some examples of silicones that can have this affect include sealant vapor. Similarly, make sure to protect your O2 sensor from harmful gases and chemicals, such as hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and methane.

Schedule Service in Pennsylvania

Replacing your damaged or worn out oxygen sensor is usually not a difficult job. Any one of our highly trained technicians has the skills needed to replace this tricky part. Schedule your next appointment today by calling or scheduling online. Thank you for trusting United Tire and Service for all your auto repair needs

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