Oxygen Sensors are the most widely sold automotive part through the online market. In addition, Oxygen Sensors have such a tremendous amount of varieties and categories that a user can easily get lost in a sea of automotive websites while searching for their specific oxygen sensor.

The Oxygen Sensor measures the proportion or content of oxygen gas in the exhaust gases of the engine. The oxygen content in the exhaust gas precisely indicates the combustion efficiency and air fuel ratio.

High oxygen content in the exhaust gas indicates a lean mixture which affects performance and causes problems like knocking, misfire and may also damage the engine. Low oxygen content indicates a rich mixture which causes excess emissions and reduces the fuel economy.

Oxygen Sensors measure the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases and send a signal to the Engine Control Unit (ECU). The ECU monitors the signal and accordingly adjusts the amount of fuel entering the engine, keeping the air-fuel ratio closer to stoichiometric ratio. Thus, an Oxygen Sensor optimizes the performance and fuel efficiency and minimizes emissions.

How Does the Oxygen Sensor Work?

An Oxygen sensor is installed in such a way that one of its surfaces is in contact with the exhaust gas flow and another surface with the outside air. Oxygen sensors do not measure the concentration of the oxygen gas in the exhaust gas, but measure the difference between the amount of oxygen in the exhaust and in outside air.

The difference in the air fuel ratio develops a definite voltage signal which is provided to the ECU. This signal is between 0 to 1 volts. When the engine is provided a rich mixture, all oxygen in the cylinder is used up and hence, low oxygen is found in the exhaust. This results in a high voltage.

Similarly, when a lean mixture is provided in the cylinder, excess oxygen is found in the exhaust. This results in a low voltage. Based on the oxygen quantity in exhaust gases, voltage signals are provided constantly to the ECU so that it can maintain a stoichiometric air fuel ratio by regulating the fuel injection.

Why and How Often should I change my Oxygen Sensor?

Oxygen sensors play an important role in both fuel efficiency and engine performance. If Oxygen Sensors are not performing well, it leads to lowered performance of the engine and poor fuel efficiency which ultimately decreases your vehicle’s driveability. Hence, it is of utmost importance to keep the Oxygen Sensors up to the mark for the longevity of your vehicle and to receive efficient performance from it.

Every vehicle manufacturer has different recommendations on how often the oxygen sensor should be changed. It is specified at the beginning in terms of mileage or time period depending upon expected day to day use of the vehicle. However, it is strongly advised to get it checked at regular intervals as it depends upon gas-containment, as well as local weather.

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