What does it mean when oxygen sensor fails?

What does it mean when oxygen sensor fails?

Oxygen sensors being an important part of the emission system, if displays a trouble code in engine’s computer, it means the sensor has failed. A digital multimeter and a code reader can be used to identify the exact issue, and if the sensors failed, one can only replace them.

When did they start putting oxygen sensors in cars?

Then, slide a jack underneath one of the vehicle’s jack points. After lifting it up, place a jack stand there to keep the car elevated. Starting around 1994 and 1995, manufacturers started making vehicles with 2 oxygen sensors. The second sensor is only accessible by crawling underneath the vehicle.

What’s the best way to change an O2 sensor?

Unplug the wire at the connector and remove O2 sensor. They do sell a special tool, but you can do it with a crescent wrench. Use some liquid wrench first. Apply anti-seize to the threads of the new O2 sensor for ease of installation and reconnect the wire.

How does the O2 sensor work in a Pontiac Sunfire?

The oxygen (O2) sensors in a Pontiac Sunfire measure the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gas and relay this information to the powertrain control module (PCM). The PCM uses this information to adjust the air-to-fuel ratio and the ignition timing. There are two O2 sensors in a Pontiac Sunfire: one primary sensor and one secondary sensor.

Where is the secondary sensor on a SunFire?

The primary sensor is in the exhaust manifold and the secondary sensor is underneath the car, in the exhaust pipe after the catalytic converter. Turn the ignition to the “OFF” position and shift the Sunfire’s transmission into “Park” or first gear (manual). Set the parking brake and open the hood.

Where is the secondary oxygen sensor located on a car?

The secondary oxygen sensor is located six inches downstream from the catalytic converter. It has a single wire connector and screws into the exhaust pipe. Kyle Sanstrom has been writing professionally since 2008.

Where is the exhaust manifold on a SunFire?

Turn the ignition to the “OFF” position and shift the Sunfire’s transmission into “Park” or first gear (manual). Set the parking brake and open the hood. Raise the front of the vehicle using an automotive jack and support it with jack stands. Chock the rear wheels. Locate the exhaust manifold.