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The Three W's of Oxygen Sensors
Copyright © 2006-2009 Quinton Becker
Unless you are an automobile mechanic or work around car parts, you probably do not know anything about oxygen sensors. Of course, the name itself gives a pretty big clue, but still leaves a lot to the imagination. The fact is, oxygen sensors are very important to the overall function of a vehicle. The following are what could be referred to as the three W's of oxygen sensors:
What is an Oxygen Sensor?
An oxygen sensor is actually a probe that is mounted inside a
vehicle's exhaust. This device is used to measure the ratio of air
to fuel inside the exhaust after the combustion process. The sensor
sends out voltage information to the engine's computer every few
seconds so that it can make adjustments as needed. If there is a
perfectly balanced mixture of air and fuel, the output voltage will
be around 0.45 volts.
If there is less oxygen in the mixture than needed, it is said to be
a rich mixture. The oxygen sensor will report a higher voltage
reading of 0.8 volts or above. When the sensor reports a reading of
0.3 volts or below, the mixture is considered to be a lean one. Upon
receiving a too high or too low voltage reading, the engine's
computer will command the mixture to go either lean or rich, causing
it to become balanced again.
Why Replace the Oxygen Sensor?
The function of an oxygen sensor is to measure the air/fuel mixture.
It is important that this mixture stay as balanced as possible
because it affects the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. The air/fuel
mixtures in today's fuel injected vehicles can go back and forth
between rich and lean very quickly. Therefore, it is essential for
the oxygen sensor to be able to respond appropriately.
Along with better fuel efficiency, having a fully functioning oxygen
sensor is good for the environment. A more balanced air/fuel mixture
leads to fewer emissions and helps reduce air pollution. If you care
at all about the threat of global warming, this should be as great
of an incentive for you as getting better gas mileage.
The oxygen sensor can also harm a vehicle's catalytic converter if
it is not working properly or has failed. This cannot only cause a
decrease in power and gas mileage, but lead to expensive repairs as
well.
When Should the Oxygen Sensor be Replaced?
Because emissions from vehicles play such a big role in air
pollution, oxygen sensors have become standard equipment. In most
vehicles made after the mid 1990s, there is a dash light or check
engine light that alerts drivers when their sensor or sensors may
not be functioning properly. When this happens, it is best to have
the vehicle checked by a mechanic to ensure which sensor (there can
be between 1 and 4 sensors) needs to be replaced. For those who do
not have a dash light, an emissions test may be necessary. If your
vehicle doesn't seem to be performing like it used to, (not as much
power or getting worse gas mileage) a faulty oxygen sensor may be to
blame.
Depending on where the sensor is located, the replacement procedure
can be easy or it could be quite hard. Do-it-yourself mechanics will
most likely need to purchase a special socket with a slit in the
side for the oxygen sensor wire. Of course, any professional
mechanic can perform this procedure as well. Replacing an oxygen
sensor will cost somewhere between $50 and $300 but may be well
worth the money because of better fuel efficiency.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of what an oxygen
sensor is, why it is important, and when it needs to be replaced.
Pay attention to dash light warnings or other signals your car may
be giving you through its performance or lack thereof. A properly
functioning vehicle can save you money in the long run, and just
might help save the environment.
About the Author
Quinton Becker writes about cars, trucks and motorcycles. Quinton is one of many writers who contribute automotive information to: http://www.AutomotiveWebmasters.com - a website where you can uncover the lowest gasoline prices in your state, loads of automotive information, and a free better gas mileage tips ebook. Also for auto parts, please consider: http://www.drivewire.com
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