Can You Still Drive with a Faulty Oxygen Sensor?
2 Answers
You should not drive with a faulty car oxygen sensor. Here 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 installed on the engine 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, worsened engine conditions, causing symptoms such as stalling at idle, inaccurate engine operation, and reduced power. 3. Symptoms: If the oxygen sensor fails, the engine performance deteriorates, adjustments become fixed, idle becomes unstable, emission values become abnormal, fuel consumption increases, spark plugs accumulate carbon, fuel consumption rises, resulting in decreased engine power, shaking, higher emissions, and in severe cases, engine knocking.
If the oxygen sensor is faulty, the car should still be able to run, and the engine won't stall immediately. With decades of driving experience, I've encountered this situation: short-term emergency driving is manageable, but you'll notice a significant spike in fuel consumption and reduced engine power, making the car feel sluggish. Continuing to drive long-term poses serious risks: the oxygen sensor regulates the exhaust mixture ratio, and when it fails, incomplete fuel combustion can occur, potentially contaminating and damaging the catalytic converter—repairs for which can cost thousands. I recommend checking for trouble codes if abnormalities are detected; if the check engine light comes on, visit a professional repair shop immediately. During regular maintenance, inspect the sensor connections to prevent corrosion, and opt for high-quality replacement parts—don't skimp on quality. Prioritize safe driving; don't wait for an accident to regret it.
