so how often do you replace Oxygen Sensor?

[KRS]

I have a '99 ford taurus se v6 that seems to be using more gas than it used to. It is also knocking under acceleration. I think I need to change the O2 sensors, they are probably the factory originals. Any thoughts, ideas?

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: so how often do you replace Oxygen Sensor?

Well, if the computer doesn't kick out a fault code - I use my nose. When you smell rotten eggs, it's time to change the oxy sensor.<br /><br />The taurus does have a knock sensor which should retard the timing. Me thinks you need the codes read.<br /><br />Aldo

 

[KRS]

Re: so how often do you replace Oxygen Sensor?

What do you think of the $99 code readers on the market now, I think Actron sells one. Useful or garbage?

 

[ZmOz]

Re: so how often do you replace Oxygen Sensor?

Originally posted by azfyrfyter63:<br /> What do you think of the $99 code readers on the market now, I think Actron sells one. Useful or garbage?

Almost any parts store will read the codes for free.

 

[KRS]

Re: so how often do you replace Oxygen Sensor?

Originally posted by ZmOz:<br />

Originally posted by azfyrfyter63:<br /> What do you think of the $99 code readers on the market now, I think Actron sells one. Useful or garbage?

Almost any parts store will read the codes for free.

Thanks, my wife saw this before I did... there goes my new toy purchase.

 

[PierBridge]

Re: so how often do you replace Oxygen Sensor?

Originally posted by azfyrfyter63:<br /> What do you think of the $99 code readers on the market now, I think Actron sells one. Useful or garbage?

It may work for you, but in general they are usually JUNK.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: so how often do you replace Oxygen Sensor?

Check your air filter..... and change brands of gas. Check your tire pressure. You might want to pick up a "top engine cleaner" and do that too.<br /><br />For some strange reason my Impala gets the best mpg using sunoco gas. I was using citgo because it was 2-3 cents cheaper but the sunoco works better for mpg.<br /><br />Bob

 

[SlowlySinking]

Re: so how often do you replace Oxygen Sensor?

The $99 code readers will do what they say, read the codes, it's up to you to determine what's really wrong. Example, a 2001 Sante Fe, my Actron CP-9145 code reader says P0171 "system too lean, bank 1". Duh, that leaves a lot of possibilities, so what could it be? Dealer inspection turned up a defective timing belt self adjuster and the belt jumped timing, Hyundai's 100k/10 year warranty fixed that and the mass Air Flow Sensor ($$$) was also replaced, code went away. Good luck with OBDll, the old Ford EEC-IV system codes at least pointed you to the problem area but still required common troubleshooting sense.

 

[dolluper]

Re: so how often do you replace Oxygen Sensor?

Reading the codes could give you a starting point but the codes won't show some basic problems as the computer will compenstate for some.Make sure your just not running to hot or your plugs in need of attention,plug wires good,your charging system is up to snuff low voltages can effect your proformance alot Check my post on AUTO SENSOR BASICS

 

[byordy]

Re: so how often do you replace Oxygen Sensor?

I have an Actron OBD2 reader, although mine was $149. It came with a CD that translates the generic OBD2 codes into the manufacturer specific codes for each vehicle. I've used it to diagnose both a tranmission problem (which GM paid for) and a suspension problem (broken left front height sensor) on my wife's Cadillac. In both cases it lead me directly to the problem. It's both a great toy and a useful tool in my opinion. Mine has paid for itself just with these two problems. Just to fuel the Ford vs. GM controversy, I've never seen anything but "passed" on my Lincoln.<br />Bill...

 

[SlowlySinking]

Re: so how often do you replace Oxygen Sensor?

Hi Bill, does that CD have a part number, mine came with a CD but it just does a code look up with no translation. Thanks, Ken