What is an O2 Sensor and what does it do?
O2 Sensor is an Oxygen sensor. They were originally introduced in 1976, and provide on board analysis of the air/fuel mixture by measuring the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust. Faulty O2 sensors can cause drivability problems and cause the check engine light to come on. This provides feedback to the vehicle’s on board computer to assist in fuel control management. Faulty O2 sensors can also reduce fuel economy by 10 – 15%. Several things can affect an oxygen sensor’s performance. Mechanical damage in the form of a broken wire or the most common problem is contaminations. Lead, carbon or silicone can coat the sensor and make it sluggish or inoperable. A contaminated sensor must be replaced.
