Symptoms of Oxygen Sensor Failure?
3 Answers
Once the oxygen sensor fails, the computer of the electronic fuel injection system will not be able to obtain information about the oxygen concentration in the exhaust pipe, thus failing to perform feedback control on the air-fuel ratio. This will lead to increased engine fuel consumption and exhaust pollution, as well as engine issues such as unstable idling, misfiring, and surging. Typically, there are two oxygen sensors, described as follows: 1. Front Oxygen Sensor: The front oxygen sensor is used to adjust the mixture concentration, while the rear oxygen sensor monitors the working condition of the three-way catalytic converter. Failure of the front oxygen sensor will result in the inability to correct the mixture, leading to increased vehicle fuel consumption and reduced power. 2. Rear Oxygen Sensor: Failure of the rear oxygen sensor means the working condition of the three-way catalytic converter cannot be determined. If the three-way catalytic converter fails, timely maintenance will not be possible, ultimately affecting the engine's operating condition.
When the oxygen sensor malfunctions, there are several noticeable symptoms. A sudden increase in fuel consumption—where a full tank that used to last 500 kilometers now barely makes it past 400—hits the wallet hard. The engine warning light stays on constantly, which is frustrating to see. The car drives poorly, feeling sluggish during acceleration with a lack of power when stepping on the gas, making uphill climbs even more difficult. At idle, the engine shakes noticeably, trembling at red lights like it's shivering. The exhaust smells strange, becoming pungent or foul, and sometimes emits black smoke. All these issues occur because the faulty sensor prevents the computer from adjusting the air-fuel mixture properly. Ignoring it long-term can shorten the engine's lifespan and lead to excessive emissions that pollute the environment. It's best to quickly check for trouble codes using an OBD tool and visit a professional repair shop—avoid DIY fixes.
A faulty oxygen sensor can significantly impact your driving experience. The engine may run roughly with poor acceleration, and you'll notice a sluggish response when pressing the gas pedal. Idling becomes unstable, causing the vehicle to shake with fluctuating speeds when stationary. Exhaust emissions may appear darker in color or emit unusual odors that immediately feel wrong. Fuel consumption increases noticeably, turning an otherwise fuel-efficient car into a gas guzzler. The illuminated check engine light serves as a warning - don't ignore it. Failure to address the issue promptly can damage the catalytic converter, leading to more expensive repairs. Regular maintenance including proper cleaning can help prevent such failures.