What Does an O2 Sensor Do?
Modern vehicles rely on a set of various sensors to monitor, correct, and optimize different systems. All of the information collected is relayed to the engine control unit (ECU) and other internal computers for use in making adjustments to everything from the amount of fuel your engine receives to the amount of power steering assistance needed.
Some of the most crucial sensors within our vehicles are the oxygen sensors, or 02 sensors, which monitor the concentration of oxygen in the exhaust. This information is used to gauge the efficiency and emissions of the vehicle, and subsequently adjust the air-fuel mixture for optimal fuel economy and environmental safety.
What is An Oxygen Sensor?
Most vehicles will have multiple oxygen sensors located along the exhaust system, often on the exhaust manifold or around a catalytic converter. These sensors are responsible for taking accurate readings of the exhaust’s oxygen content and making adjustments to the engine’s combustion mixture.
Combustion engines rely on a precise mix of air and fuel, which is altered at the discretion of the ECU based on readings from the oxygen sensors. When this ratio is thrown off by an issue in the vehicle, it can cause what are known as rich and lean conditions.
A rich condition refers to an excess of fuel in the mixture, while a lean condition is the opposite, a lack of adequate fuel concentration. Both of these issues can cause damage to your engine along with higher amounts of harmful emissions.
By using a set of two or more sensors, the vehicle can measure oxygen content both upstream and downstream from the catalytic converter, which it uses to gauge the effectiveness of the converter and emissions system.
Signs of a Faulty O2 Sensor
Playing such a critical role in your vehicle’s operation, you could imagine that issues with an O2 sensor can cause a host of issues. Over time, these sensors can experience electrical faults, debris damage, or impacts that may prevent the sensor from providing accurate readings, depriving the ECU of important information. Failures like these can cause issues including:
- Decreased fuel efficiency
- Reduced performance
- Misfiring engine
- Unusual odor or smoke from exhaust
- Engine struggling at idle
- Check engine light
Can I Drive With a Bad O2 Sensor?
Reduced efficiency and increased emissions may seem like symptoms you could simply turn a blind eye to for a while, but driving with a faulty O2 sensor can cause significant damage to your emissions system or engine if left to linger.
A rich condition caused by a malfunctioning O2 sensor can leave the excess fuel burning off within the catalytic converter, causing internal damage and reducing the lifespan of your emission system’s most crucial component. Furthermore, misfires can lead to damage within the motor’s cylinders if left unaddressed.
A rich or lean condition will leave you unable to pass an emissions test, potentially delaying your registration and preventing you from driving.
Exhaust & Emissions Services in Naperville, IL
No matter the issue your exhaust or emissions system is experiencing, the ASE Certified technicians at Becker Service Center in Naperville, IL have the expertise and equipment to pinpoint the source of your issue and return your exhaust system to operating as it should. Don’t let a faulty sensor or catalytic converter prevent you from passing smog or driving, schedule with the friendly team at Becker Service Center today! Give us a call or book your appointment online.