How can you detect oxygen sensor failure? What are the signs of O2 sensor malfunction? Is the oxygen sensor defective? How many miles are the oxygen sensors replaced?
The O2 sensors measure the oxygen (or concentration of combustible material) in exhaust gases from an engine. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM), which uses this information, determines the right air-fuel ratio for your machine. Poor combustion can be caused by excess fuel or air in the cylinders. These combustion will produce more oxygen in the exhaust gasses. The oxygen sensor will detect this and send the data to engine control module. This allows the computer to make the appropriate adjustments for fuel injectors or engine operation timing. This ensures that the engine’s mixture of fuel and air will burn at the maximum rate.
Modern vehicles have at least two oxygen sensors in their exhaust system. They are located upstream (upstream), and downstream (downstream). Most vehicles’ O2 sensors are made up of just one or two wires. Four wires are used for O2 sensors in newer models. Two wires serve the signal circuit, while the remaining two serve the sensor’s heater. When the vehicle starts, the PCM opens its heater circuit, which allows the sensor’s operating temperature to rise more quickly.
Broadband and Zirconia are the two main O2 sensors currently in use. The Zirconia ceramic O2 sensor is unable to respond to all air-fuel mixtures rich or poor. Broadband O2 sensors, however, are able to detect all mixtures over a greater coverage area and monitor the system more accurately.
What are the symptoms of Oxygen Sensor Failure?
These are the most common symptoms that indicate your vehicle’s O2 sensor is not functioning properly. Many malfunctions may present the same symptoms as an O2 sensor. Before you replace the sensor, make sure to conduct a thorough diagnosis.
Engine Fault Light
The check engine light is your first line of defense. If the oxygen sensor is not working properly, the check engine light will be illuminated. The PCM monitors and controls the O2 sensors, heater circuits, and other components. The device will turn on the engine fault light if it detects an issue with O2 sensors and store a relevant fault code in its memory. Examples of fault codes are P0172 and/or P0141.
Engine Performance Issues
When calculating an engine’s air-fuel mix, the PCM uses signals from O2 sensors. The PCM can deliver incorrect fuel to the engine if the O2 sensor is defective. This could lead to misfiring, misfiring, or stalling.
Fuel consumption is rising
An O2 sensor that is not working properly or is defective can result in a vibrant mixture of fuel and air, as well as increased fuel consumption. Catalytic converters can overheat and eventually fail when there isn’t enough fuel.
Failed Emissions Testing
An O2 sensor problem can often cause failure in the emission test. Your vehicle may emit a rotten egg smell in its exhaust system. Defective sensors can cause carbon monoxide gas poisoning in the environment and you.
Why Do Oxygen Sensors Deteriorate?
O2 sensors are designed to last between 100-150 thousand km for vehicles less than 15 year old. This is for older cars and it can last between 75-90 thousand km. A faulty oxygen sensor could be a problem if your vehicle has been driven a lot. O2 sensors get dirty due to oil, carbon, and other environmental elements (water, salt, etc.). They stop working.
