Is Cleaning the Car Oxygen Sensor Useful?

[ManuelMarie]

Whether cleaning the car oxygen sensor is useful depends on the situation. If the tip of the oxygen sensor is black (mainly due to carbon deposits), cleaning can be very effective. However, if the tip is white or brown, it indicates that the oxygen sensor is poisoned (the former is silicon poisoning, and the latter is lead poisoning). Regardless of the type of poisoning, cleaning will not help, and the sensor should be replaced promptly. Note: Here, cleaning does not mean simply rinsing with water, as this has little effect. The oxygen sensor should be soaked in a 5-10% ferric chloride hydrochloric acid solution for about 10-15 minutes before being rinsed with clean water. After cleaning, ensure that the four surrounding holes are clear. Additionally, observe the bottom of the oxygen sensor. If the internal carrier appears white after cleaning, the oxygen sensor has essentially regained its activity.