How to Identify a Faulty Oxygen Sensor?
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Cars with faulty oxygen sensors may experience reduced power performance, significantly increased fuel consumption, rapid damage to the catalytic converter, and a greatly shortened lifespan of the catalytic converter. Below is relevant information about automotive oxygen sensors: 1. The oxygen sensor is indispensable: The oxygen sensor is an essential component for reducing exhaust pollution in engines. Once the air-fuel ratio of the mixture deviates from the theoretical value, the oxygen sensor detects the oxygen concentration in the exhaust and sends feedback to the ECU. This feedback controls the fuel injector's fuel volume, thereby maintaining the air-fuel ratio within the normal range. 2. The oxygen sensor monitors the air-fuel ratio of the mixture: The oxygen sensor calculates oxygen concentration through chemical equilibrium to monitor the air-fuel ratio of the mixture. Therefore, if the front oxygen sensor fails, it cannot monitor the vehicle's exhaust emission values. 3. Core component: The core component of the oxygen sensor is a porous ZrO2 ceramic tube. At certain temperatures, high-concentration oxygen molecules inside the tube can be adsorbed to form electrons, creating a potential difference.
I've driven quite a few cars, and the most common symptom of a faulty oxygen sensor is a sudden increase in fuel consumption. Previously, a full tank could last over 500 kilometers, but now I'm lucky if it reaches 400. It's really hard on the wallet. The power also noticeably drops, and pressing the accelerator feels like stepping on cotton—the car just drags along. The yellow engine light on the dashboard usually comes on; no need to panic, but it should be taken seriously. The car also shakes at idle, especially when stopping or starting. The exhaust smells strong, with a hint of gasoline, and the tailpipe looks black, indicating incomplete combustion. A faulty sensor disrupts the air-fuel ratio balance, and prolonged driving like this not only wastes money but also damages engine components like the catalytic converter. Once, during a long trip, I encountered this issue and immediately pulled over to find a repair shop for diagnostics. After confirming the problem, replacing the sensor restored normal performance.