FAQ for Oxygen Sensor Repair
Q: What should you be careful about when servicing the oxygen sensor?
A:
You should handle the oxygen sensor carefully and take care not to drop the oxygen sensor and keep the in-line connector and the louvered end free of grease, dirt, or other contaminants.
By BobGM Specialist
02/11/2022 Q: What should be noticed when installing the heated oxygen sensor 1?
A:
Aspecial anti-seize compound is used on the HO2S threads. The compound consists of liquid graphite and glass beads. The graphite tends to burn away, but the glass beads remain, making the sensor easier to remove. New or service replacement sensors already have the compound applied to the threads. If the sensor is removed from an exhaust component and if for any reason the sensor is to be reinstalled, the threads must have an anti-seize compound applied before reinstallation.
By BobGM Specialist
02/11/2022 Q: What should you be careful about when removing the excessive force and oxygen sensor?
A:
The oxygen sensor may be difficult to remove when the engine temperature is below 48°C (120°F). So you should take care that excessive force may damage threads in the exhaust manifold or the exhaust pipe.
By BobGM Specialist
02/11/2022 Q: What should not be done when I service the oxygen sensors?
A:
You mustn't use cleaning solvents on the sensor, or drop or mishandle the sensor.
By BobGM Specialist
02/11/2022 Q: What's the recommended torque for the HO2S installed on the catalytic converter?
A:
The recommended torque is 42 N.m (31 lb-ft).
By BobGM Specialist
02/11/2022 Q: How to check for contamination?
A:
You can remove the HO2S and visually inspect the portion of the sensor exposed to the exhaust stream to check for contamination. If contaminated, the portion of the sensor exposed to the exhaust stream will have a white powdery coating. Silicon contamination causes a high but false HO2S signal voltage (rich exhaust indication). The control module will then reduce the amount of fuel delivered to the engine, causing a severe driveability problem.
By BobGM Specialist
02/11/2022 Q: Can I remove the pigtail from the heated oxygen sensor?
A:
No, you cannot. Damage or removal of the pigtail or the connector affects the proper operation of the heated oxygen sensor.
By BobGM Specialist
02/11/2022 Q: Can I solder heated oxygen sensor wires?
A:
No, you cannot. You shouldn't solder heated oxygen sensor wires. Soldering the wires will result in the loss of the air reference to the sensor. You can also refer to Engine Electrical for proper wire and connection repair techniques.
By BobGM Specialist
02/11/2022 Q: What's the recommended torque for the HO2S installed on the exhaust manifold?
A:
The recommended torque is 42 N.m (31 lb-ft).
By BobGM Specialist
02/11/2022 Q: Why would there be contamination of the oxygen sensor?
A:
It could result from the use of an inappropriate RTV sealant (not oxygen sensor safe) or excessive engine coolant or oil consumption.
By BobGM Specialist
02/11/2022 See more FAQs (13)