Oxygen Sensor Information

Oxygen Sensor When to Replace Reasons for Replacement

The oxygen sensor is a device which determines the oxygen content of the exhaust gas. Since the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gas is a very good indicator of combustion efficiency, it is also the best place to monitor the air fuel ratio.

Located in the exhaust system, upstream & downstream of the catalytic converter. The oxygen sensor produces a voltage proportional to the amount of oxygen in the exhaust versus the air (<150 mv="" lean="">750 mV rich). This data is used to control the air-fuel mixture through PORT or TFI injectors and carburetors. Sensors are monitored or checked anywhere from 4 to 100 times per second. The air-fuel mixture is thus always moving from rich to lean averaging very close to stoichiometric (ideal) ratios.

Its role is to inform the ECU of the oxygen content of burned gases that result from combustion. The o2 sensor helps to ensure that the amount of fuel injected into the cylinders for the air-fuel ratio is at an ideal level.The o2 sensor ensures low fuel consumption as well as reduced pollutants emitted from the engine. It is therefore an important component to help pass vehicle inspection.

NTK Oxygen Sensors are precision made for outstanding performance and manufactured to meet and exceed all original equipment specification and test requirements.

Improved Engine Response & Performance

Lower Emissions

Improved Fuel Economy

Longer Sensor Life

Meets OEM Specifications

The lifespan of a Oxygen Sensor is 160,000 km on average, as long as it is not shortened by engine malfunction. Unburned oil due to engine misfire may contaminate the probe irreversibly. Exhaust leaks also damage the Oxygen Sensor, leading to an intake of air which can cause a dangerous increase in temperature.

To ensure the maximum lifespan of the Oxygen Sensor, it is necessary to perform strict engine maintenance (spark plugs, air filter, etc.).

Several signs that your Oxygen Sensor needs to be replaced:

If the engine check light turns on while the vehicle is being driven.

The engine stutters and suffers from a lack of acceleration power.

Diagnosis of the Oxygen Sensor:

A defective oxygen sensor is detected only by a special diagnostic tool used by trained professionals. It is therefore necessary to have this service administered at a professional garage.

	Condition of the Oxygen Sensor : Dark brown saturation Possible cause : Unbalanced air/fuel mixture
	Condition of the Oxygen Sensor : Grainy green saturation Possible cause : Anti-freeze leak that has entered the combustion chamber
	Condition of the Oxygen Sensor : Reddish or white saturation Possible cause : Additives in the fuel
	Condition of the Oxygen Sensor : Blackish with oily saturation Possible cause : Too high oil consumption

A faulty oxygen sensor has the direct consequence of disrupting the engine air-fuel balance. This leads to an increase in pollutants emitted by the engine, as well as causing the engine to stutter and consequently fuel consumption to increase.