Can oxygen sensors go bad, in other words if your regularly getting carbon build up that triggers a fault code is it the sensor at fault or something else like a leaking seal.
Can oxygen sensors go bad, in other words if your regularly getting carbon build up that triggers a fault code is it the sensor at fault or something else like a leaking seal.
Depending on what the contaminant is, an ultrasonic cleaner can sometimes be effective.
Anybody remember the mass fuel contamination issue some years ago?
It was a bit like Shipman and the undertakers. The first people to notice was the motor factors who suddenly found that sensors were flying off the shelves and going out of stock. Some people found that ultrasonic cleaning could provide a fix, at least for a while,
Depends which one it is and where they are on your particular car, the number 1 sensor on my old astra was easy as it was right in front of you when you popped the bonnet. Number 2 was in the exhaust so a bit more of a pain in the bum but still not particularly difficult to get to once up on stands.
Depends which one it is and where they are on your particular car, the number 1 sensor on my old astra was easy as it was right in front of you when you popped the bonnet. Number 2 was in the exhaust so a bit more of a pain in the bum but still not particularly difficult to get to once up on stands.
Doesn't it? My understanding is both sensors detect oxygen levels by measuring a voltage with exhaust gasses passing over them, the ecu uses the difference in voltage between the 2 sensors to determine how much oxygen has been burnt and manages the fuelling accordingly for maximum efficiency.
Doesn't it? My understanding is both sensors detect oxygen levels by measuring a voltage with exhaust gasses passing over them, the ecu uses the difference in voltage between the 2 sensors to determine how much oxygen has been burnt and manages the fuelling accordingly for maximum efficiency.
#2 sensor is not used as part of the feedback loop.
Its purpose is to monitor catalyst eficiency
A bad cat or bad sensor might generate a P0420 code. But it will have no effect on the closed loop engine fuelling
This applies to the mainstream of cars over the last 20 years or so. It may not apply to some of the most recent ones which may have more sophisticated management systems
Oh and another thing, stochiometric burns (Lambda if you like) are neither maximum power not maximum efficiency.
Maximum efficiency is achieved with lean burn.
The XJS 5.3 HE was a lean burn engine and could achieve mid 20's MPG which was pretty damn good at the time for such a large and powerful car.
ISTR that The Rover K series engine was originally developed as a lean burn Engine, But EUSSR emission rules meant that it ended up never being used to its full advantage...
This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.