Today’s automobiles are made of advanced technologically-based systems that rely on information coming from various sensors to determine what the optimal conditions are for engine performance, fuel efficiency, and other various important facets of automobiles. One very important component for helping to determine engine performance is oxygen sensors. Oxygen sensors serve a few purposes for your car’s functioning. In this article, we’ll go over the basics of what an oxygen sensor does, why it’s important for your car’s performance, and what you can do to maintain the part or address issues of malfunction and wear.
What is an oxygen sensor’s main function?
An oxygen sensor is a critical component in any car’s exhaust system. Its main purpose is to determine the makeup of your car’s exhaust or emissions and relay the information to your car’s on-board computer for optimal engine performance. Your car needs to properly concoct an optimal fuel-to-oxygen ratio for combustion, and the oxygen sensor plays a big part in the effectiveness of this task. An oxygen sensor that is beginning to malfunction will produce a few symptoms that can mostly affect the exhaust system and the engine timing. It is critical to be aware of what the oxygen sensor does for your car so you can be prepared for how to deal with oxygen sensor issues when they arise.
What to look out for in a damaged or failing O2 sensor
Noticing the signs of oxygen sensor failure is critical, and even more important to follow up with. Some of the symptoms that a failing oxygen sensor produces can be alarming to drivers, and rightfully so. They must be attended to immediately to avoid significant engine damage or ongoing performance issues. here are some of the most common symptoms of O2 sensor failure that you should be aware of:
Diminished engine performance
Engine performance is often compromised by many different automotive issues that can arise, so it’s important to bring your car to a specialist to rule-out other causes of the symptoms. It is most common for drivers with failing O2 sensors to experience engine misfiring, engine stalling, and rough idling, just to name a few of the most prevalent symptoms. While rough idling may not be a red flag to all drivers, engine misfiring is certainly concerning and should be addressed immediately.
Lowered fuel efficiency
Vehicles today are known for their more optimal fuel economy; that’s why when you begin noticing your car’s fuel efficiency suffering it can be disheartening and disappointing. However, a sudden drop in fuel efficiency can indicate an issue with various components of the vehicle, including the functioning of the O2 sensor. Usually your car begins to run rich when the oxygen levels are too low, leading to inefficient use of fuel.
Check-engine light illumination
Any time you notice your check-engine light come on, it is critical to have it checked out by a professional auto mechanic right away. If the problem is related to your car’s O2 sensor, then specific trouble codes will be reported to your mechanic via the car’s computer and special diagnostic equipment.
What you can do to prevent O2 sensor failure
Sometimes automotive issues are simply inevitable, as parts begin to fail over time and require replacement or servicing. Here are a few things you can do that may help keep your oxygen sensors in good working condition throughout the year:
- Find an automotive shop that specializes in the type of car you drive
- Adhere to your car’s maintenance plan set forth by the manufacturer
- Inquire about troubling symptoms right away—don’t wait!
- Make sure your automotive specialist uses the highest quality replacement parts
It’s not easy taking care of an automobile; it can be expensive, time-consuming, and draining. Here at Das European Autohaus, we specialize in European imports including BMW, Mercedes, Audi, MINI, Porsche, and Volkswagen, for drivers near the areas of Spring and Houston, TX. As Houston’s leading European auto specialists, our clients continue to bring their cars to us because we offer specialized services and expertise at a more affordable rate than nearby dealerships and shops. If you are experiencing the symptoms of O2 sensor failure, please don’t hesitate to contact us or schedule an appointment right away through our website.
