How to Determine the Quality of an Oxygen Sensor?
1 Answers
There are several methods to determine the quality of an oxygen sensor: 1. Observe the color: The normal color of the oxygen sensor tip is light gray. Any change in the color of the sensor tip indicates a fault or potential issue. A black tip is usually caused by carbon contamination, and the accumulated carbon deposits should be cleaned after removal. 2. Measure the resistance value of the oxygen sensor: After the engine reaches normal operating temperature, disconnect the oxygen sensor's wiring connector and use a resistance meter to measure the resistance between the sensor's terminals. The resistance value should meet the standard specifications for the specific vehicle model (typically 4-40Ω). If the resistance value does not meet the requirements, the oxygen sensor should be replaced. 3. Use an automotive computer diagnostic tool for inspection: Start the engine and warm it up until the coolant temperature reaches 80 degrees Celsius. Check the voltage value of the oxygen sensor on the diagnostic tool. A good sensor will show a voltage fluctuating between 0V and 1V, with faster fluctuations indicating better performance. If the voltage remains at 0V or 1V or does not change, it indicates that the sensor is aged or malfunctioning and needs replacement.