What are the reasons for frequent failure of car oxygen sensors?

2 Answers
LaDavid
07/24/25 7:11am
The reasons for frequent failure of car oxygen sensors are: 1. Poor fuel quality; 2. Spark plug failure; 3. Three-way catalytic converter issues. The working principle of the oxygen sensor is: using a ceramic sensitive element to measure the oxygen potential in the heating furnace or exhaust pipe, calculating the corresponding oxygen concentration based on the chemical equilibrium principle, thereby monitoring and controlling the air-fuel ratio of combustion in the furnace to ensure product quality and meet exhaust emission standards. The function of the oxygen sensor is: to control the amount of car exhaust emissions, effectively reducing the environmental pollution caused by cars. The detection method for the oxygen sensor is: 1. Unplug the oxygen sensor connector; 2. Use a multimeter in resistance mode to measure the resistance value between pins 1 and 2 of the sensor; 3. A resistance value between 4 and 40 is normal, and if the resistance value is abnormal, the oxygen sensor should be replaced.
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McCamilla
08/11/25 2:57am
I've encountered many cases of faulty oxygen sensors in cars, and several main causes are quite common. For example, engine leaks where oil or coolant sneaks into the exhaust system and coats the sensor, causing it to malfunction—this is more prominent in older cars. Poor fuel quality is another culprit; low-grade gasoline with many impurities leaves carbon deposits after combustion, which adhere to sensitive parts. Circuit aging is common in hot engine compartments, where wires harden and crack, and connectors rust, leading to poor contact and erratic sensor signals. Driving habits also play a role, such as prolonged idling or frequent short trips with constant stop-starts, which allow condensation to corrode components. Regular checks for engine sealing, using high-quality gasoline, taking long drives to fully warm up the system, and choosing reliable replacement parts can significantly reduce issues. Otherwise, fuel consumption increases and exhaust treatment is affected.
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