Can bad spark plugs cause oxygen sensor problems?
NO. if a plug fails completely the software in the car combined with the various sensors will (or should) detect the misfire, and work out that the o2 sensor reading are correct, there is indeed excess oxygen – the sensor has not failed.
What causes a downstream O2 sensor to go bad?
O2 sensor failures can be caused by various contaminants that enter the exhaust. These include silicates from internal engine coolant leaks (due to a leaky head gasket or a crack in a cylinder wall or combustion chamber) and phosphorus from excessive oil consumption (due to worn rings or valve guides).
What does the downstream oxygen sensor control?
Oxygen Sensors, commonly referred to as O2 sensors, are part of your vehicles emission system. The purpose of the downstream, after converter, sensors is to monitor the quantities of harmful exhaust gases flowing into and out of the catalytic converter to ensure the converter is working properly.
Can a faulty O2 sensor cause faulty spark plugs on driver side?
Also if you are jumping on the highway without letting your car warm up, your spark plugs can actually shatter. When an O2 sensor goes bad the ecu knows it and ignors it so only enextended driving period may cause the plugs to foul but certainley not in the short run .
What happens when you change the O2 sensor?
The O2 sensor then sends information to the electronic control unit, or ECU, the vehicle’s computer. The ECU then adjusts the air-to-fuel ratio to optimize the fuel combustion. Sometimes an O2 sensor fails, and you need to replace it.
What does the downstream O2 sensor do in a catalytic converter?
The downstream o2 sensor’s job is to monitor the catalytic converter. Most mechanics will often say it’s the o2 that is shot when it is actually the cat. When the cat is restricted, the downstream o2 will show bad readings.
Can a bad O2 sensor cause an illuminated check engine light?
Faulty O2 sensors are a common cause of illuminated Check Engine Lights. Still, because the light may indicate a variety of other problems, it is important to watch for bad O2 sensor symptoms. If you notice any, repairing the problem as quickly as possible is a good idea to prevent further trouble.