The oxygen sensor of your vehicle measures the quantum of oxygen in the exhaust feasts that exit the machine. It sends real-time data about the quantum of unburnt oxygen in the exhaust system to the engine’s computer to determine the correct air-to-fuel for the auto’s machine. The oxygen sensor is located in the auto’s exhaust system, which allows the fuel injection and engine timing to work efficiently. This function is part of the vehicle’s emission control.
Damage or failure of the oxygen sensor will have a negative impact on engine performance and environmental emissions. Fortunately, before your oxygen sensor fails, your vehicle will send a specific signal to warn you, and the house sensor will be damaged in a large area.
Engine Misfires and Rough Idle
The tell-tale signs of a failing car oxygen sensor include the engine misfiring or your vehicle running roughly or irregularly during idle. Additionally, there are other engine performance issues associated with a failing oxygen sensor such as stalling, hesitation, and loss of power.
If you observe these issues with your car’s performance, and your check engine light is illuminated, you can almost be sure that the problem is with your oxygen sensor.
Check Engine Light Is On
Check whether the engine light is turned on for various reasons, so the first thing you need to do is to decipher the error code. After discovering the error code, you should find a professional auto repair shop as soon as possible. A professional mechanic can run a diagnostic program to determine what the error is. If the problem is with your oxygen sensor, you need to replace it as soon as possible.
If the mechanic determines that the problem is with your oxygen sensor, the problem can be solved relatively easily by replacing the sensor. The cost of replacing the oxygen sensor can be as high as $175, depending on your car model plus labor costs.
Low Gas Mileage and the Smell of Rotten Eggs
A failing oxygen sensor negatively impacts the car’s fuel combustion and delivery systems. If it’s not working properly, the oxygen sensor will allow too much fuel to be injected into the engine, which will manifest in significantly lower gas mileage compared to the usual gas mileage of your car.
When there is excess fuel in the engine due to a bad or failing oxygen sensor, the engine will produce a sulfuric smell, similar to that of rotten eggs. You may also notice black smoke emanating from the car’s exhaust.
In Conclusion
When your check engine light is on and you have all these symptoms, you can easily conclude from the above phenomena that your oxygen sensor is faulty. Your car's oxygen sensor is not designed to work permanently, it needs to be replaced at some point during the life of the engine. Newer oxygen sensors replacement should work effectively for 60,000 to 90,000 miles, depending on your car model and different brands. If your mechanic determines that your car's problem is due to a broken or malfunctioning oxygen sensor, it shouldn't take long to replace it, and you will be ready to drive more miles on the road.
