Can You Drive with a Faulty Oxygen Sensor?

[Una]

It is not advisable to drive with a faulty car oxygen sensor. Below is an introduction to the automotive oxygen sensor: 1. Sensor: It is a critical sensing component in the electronic fuel injection engine control system, playing a key role in controlling vehicle exhaust emissions, reducing environmental pollution, and improving fuel combustion quality in the engine. Oxygen sensors are typically installed on the engine's exhaust pipe. 2. Impact: As an essential part of the electronic fuel injection system, the oxygen sensor is crucial for the normal operation of the engine and effective control of exhaust emissions. A faulty sensor can lead to excessive emissions, deterioration of engine conditions, resulting in symptoms such as stalling at idle, inaccurate engine operation, and reduced power. 3. Symptoms: If the oxygen sensor fails, the engine performance may degrade, adjustments may become fixed, idle may become unstable, emission values may become abnormal, fuel consumption may increase, spark plugs may accumulate carbon deposits, leading to higher fuel consumption, decreased engine power, shaking, higher emissions, and in severe cases, engine knocking may occur.

[StElliana]

Last time my oxygen sensor failed, the car could still run and start without issues. However, fuel consumption skyrocketed—previously, a full tank could easily cover 600 kilometers, but now it barely reaches 500 before needing a refill. The check engine light stayed on constantly, which was quite annoying. At first, I took the easy way out, thinking it didn’t affect driving. But after two weeks, the power noticeably dropped, and acceleration became sluggish. Later, I learned that ignoring it long-term could damage the catalytic converter, doubling repair costs. I quickly replaced the sensor, spending a few hundred bucks to fix it, and the car regained its vigor. My advice: don’t procrastinate like I did—address symptoms early for cost savings, and regularly maintain the exhaust system to prevent aging.

[VonAbel]

The oxygen sensor monitors the oxygen content in the exhaust system to help adjust the fuel mixture. Once it fails, it can cause an imbalance in the air-fuel ratio, leading to the engine running rich, increased fuel consumption, reduced power, and excessive black smoke from the exhaust. Short-term driving is possible, but prolonged operation can lead to carbon buildup on the spark plugs and even damage the catalytic converter. Common symptoms include the check engine light turning on and unstable idling. If a diagnostic tool confirms the fault, it is recommended to replace the sensor. Cleaning the oxygen sensor may sometimes help, but most aging sensors require replacement, costing anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand yuan. Ignoring the issue can also result in excessive pollution emissions, failing to meet environmental standards. In short, the car can still move, but long-term driving is not recommended.

[ReedLee]

The vehicle can still be driven with an oxygen sensor malfunction, but it poses a safety hazard. The check engine light indicates system abnormalities, potentially causing poor engine performance and weak acceleration at high speeds, compromising overtaking safety. More critically, the catalytic converter may clog, leading to overheated exhaust pipes or even fire risks. I emphasize safety first—avoid long-distance driving under these conditions. If the light comes on, stop immediately for inspection or drive slowly to a repair shop. Replacement costs are low, repairs are quick, ensuring peace of mind. Preventive measures include regular carbon deposit cleaning on sensors and avoiding prolonged idling. Address the issue promptly for safety.