DIY Security Systems
The heated oxygen sensor is located in the exhaust pipe of the engine’s exhaust system. Its sensor measures the stream’s oxygen content that sends the analog voltage signal to the power-train control module that varies from 0 to 1 volt. In this article, you will learn how to replace a heated oxygen sensor if that happens. Oxygen sensors are essential for vehicles to combine the correct ratio of gas and oxygen to the fuel, but what to do if the oxygen sensor is having any problems?
What Are the Indications if the Heated Oxygen Sensor Has a Problem?
It is important to know this if you want to learn how to replace a heated oxygen sensor. There are some indications if you are having a problem with your heated oxygen sensor. One of which is ff the check engine light comes on. Some are if you have trouble starting, failing sensors, and fuel efficiency has been reduced. There are steps on how to replace a heated oxygen sensor. It is easy to replace even if you don’t have or the least experience in your cars. Just twist the old sensor and replace it with the new one.
The Steps on How to Detect, Remove and Replace a Heated Oxygen Sensor
Here are some steps on How to replace a heated oxygen sensor. But first, we need to learn how to detect and remove a sensor before replacing it:
Detect
- Detect a broken sensor using the OBD code scanner. It is a device that retrieves an error code from the computer that shows the reason for the check engine light. This process will also show the error code that links to the different parts of your vehicle.
- Before removing the engine, make sure that the engine is cold. Always make sure that the engine is turned off before changing or removing the sensor because it is very hot and dangerous when you touch them since it is located on the exhaust system.
- Use a jack to reach the sensor under it. During the 90’s car manufacturers started producing two oxygen sensors, the other sensor can be accessed under your vehicle. In the 2000’s they produced four sensors, two near the motor and two behind the front wheels. It would be best to make sure that the car is stable by using a jack so that it is safe for you or a mechanic to go underneath your vehicle.
Remove
- Locate the oxygen sensor. The first sensor is located next to the motor in the hood of the car. The second sensor is located behind the catalytic converter that is behind the front wheels.
- Disconnect the oxygen sensor electrical connection. Locate the small tab at the end of the plug to remove it. Push the tab down and plug it back by your hand. Avoid cutting and soldering it.
- Use oil to loosen the sensor. Some damaged sensors are hard to remove, but using penetration oil can easily get it to remove. Just spray the oil to the sensor’s plug and wait for a few minutes to remove it.
- Unscrew the sensor using a wrench. Use a wrench that is fit to the sensor turn counterclockwise to unscrew it. Please don’t force the sensor to remove it.
Replace
- Use a new sensor that is the same as old. When replacing a new sensor, you need to find an exact sensor for your car model: the same size, model, and brand.
- Use a small amount of bronze gel for the sensor. It is essential gel use as a lubricant for your sensor. Use a clean rug to apply a small amount to the sensor threads that channels in the ring going to the tip of your sensor. Use gloves to apply it.
- Secure the sensor in the exhaust line. Make sure that the sensor is fixed, tightly in place, by rotating it clockwise. Use a wrench to secure the lock.
- Plug in the connector of the vehicle. All cars nowadays are connected through wire connections. You need to plug it in and check on the vehicle by turning the engine on.
If these steps are considered, you will successfully replace a heated oxygen sensor of a car.
Know When It Is Time to Replace a Heated Oxygen Sensor
Cars in this generation rely on input from sensors. You need to check and maintain your car engine because if the sensor fails, it may cause drivability and other problems in your car. Usually, if the vehicle reaches 100mile, that is when the oxygen sensor is replaced. Here’s how to learn more about Oxygen Sensors.
Conclusion
The heated oxygen sensor is an essential part of the vehicle. The article shows the steps on how to replace a heated oxygen sensor so that you don’t need to pay for a mechanic to detect, change, and replace a heated oxygen sensor. Properly follow the procedures stated above, and you’ll be all good.