How do you remove an oxygen sensor from a car?

Disconnect the electrical connection to the oxygen sensor. Follow the cable away from the end of the sensor plugged into the exhaust line. It will end in a plastic plug inserted into an outlet. To remove it, locate the small tab on the end of the plug. While pushing the tab down, pull the plug back by hand.

What happens when you change the O2 sensor?

The O2 sensor then sends information to the electronic control unit, or ECU, the vehicle’s computer. The ECU then adjusts the air-to-fuel ratio to optimize the fuel combustion. Sometimes an O2 sensor fails, and you need to replace it.

How can I find out which oxygen sensor is to blame?

To figure out which sensor is to blame, type the code into an online database like http://www.obdii.com/codes.asp . You can buy a scanner online or at most auto parts stores. If you don’t have one, you could take your vehicle to an auto parts store or mechanic to have them detect the error code.

How often do oxygen sensors need to be replaced?

If one fails, chances are the other ones will fail soon too, so try to keep them on the same maintenance schedule. Oxygen sensors need to be replaced approximately every 100,000 mi (160,000 km) for vehicles manufactured after the year 2000. For older vehicles, change them every 60,000 mi (97,000 km) or earlier.

What’s the best way to remove an oxygen sensor?

Unscrew the oxygen sensor off the exhaust pipe using either an open-end wrench or a special socket made to remove it. The majority of oxygen sensors will take an SAE 7⁄8 inch (2.2 cm) wrench.

When do you Know Your oxygen sensor is bad?

The first indication of a problem with your vehicle’s oxygen sensor is often when the “check engine” light comes on. Failing sensors cause jerky movements, trouble starting, and reduced fuel efficiency if they aren’t replaced. Oxygen sensors are necessary for vehicles to combine the proper ratio of gas and oxygen into fuel.

When did they start putting oxygen sensors in cars?

Then, slide a jack underneath one of the vehicle’s jack points. After lifting it up, place a jack stand there to keep the car elevated. Starting around 1994 and 1995, manufacturers started making vehicles with 2 oxygen sensors. The second sensor is only accessible by crawling underneath the vehicle.

When do you know you need to change your oxygen sensor?

The first indication that there is a problem with your vehicle’s oxygen sensor is when the “Check Engine” light comes on. A quick check with a handheld diagnostic scanner/reader will confirm that you need to change the oxygen sensor on your vehicle.