How often to replace o2 sensors
Oxygen Sensors are Service items, not Repair items. Don't Wait For Failure!
Oxygen sensors are very important engine management components and are a critical part of the vehicle emission control system. That’s why checking and if required replacing a worn out or ageing oxygen sensor should be an important part of every routine service.
A faulty, worn, underperforming or damaged O2 Sensor can:
- Lessen engine performance, causing vehicle coughing, surging, hesitating, rough idling or stalling. Lack of power and poor driveability may also result.
- Increased fuel consumption. Failed or poorly operating oxygen sensors can cause a substantial drop in fuel economy
- Increase dramatically exhaust emissions
- Cause Possible engine damage
- Cause Catalytic converter failure
- Activate the Check engine light
Oxygen sensors should be inspected and replaced at the manufacturers recommended service intervals. Vehicle manufacturers recommend periodic inspection and replacement of oxygen sensors. Also see why replace oxygen sensors for more information.
Replace Your Oxygen Sensors as part of your Preventive Maintenance Program
As there are several types of oxygen sensors expected service life can vary significantly.
Typical maximum service life:
- 1 or 2 wire Oxygen sensors - have a typical service life of 50,000 Km’s
- 3 or 4 wire Oxygen Sensors (Thimble type) - have a typical service life of 80,000 Km’s
- Planar Type (Thick film) Oxygen sensors- have a typical service life of 150,000 Km’s
O2Sensors.com.au recommends Oxygen Sensor replacement every 80,000 km’s.
Our recommendation is based on years of trade experience that has shown that even 150,000km sensors are often prone to a shorter life span, and decreased performance, than expected.
Where possible all sensors should be replaced at the same time.
We strongly recommend changing sensors as pairs. (That is BOTH PRE-Cat or BOTH Post-Cat sensors at the same time)
All oxygen sensors purchased from O2sensors.com.au are supplied with a windscreen reminder sticker, so you can note when your next oxygen sensor replacement is due.
