Lambda sensor

The oxygen sensor is a sensor located in the exhaust of a car with a petrol engine. Its task is to measure the oxygen content in the exhaust gases. Modern cars usually have two lambda sensors in the exhaust system. The sensor mounted between the engine and the catalytic converter measures the amount of oxygen. The sensor mounted after the catalyst measures the efficiency of the catalyst. The catalytic converter needs the lambda sensor to function properly. With the information sent by the lambda sensor, the engine control unit (ECU) can compile the ideal air-to-fuel ratio. This optimal ratio results in optimal combustion, resulting in fewer harmful exhaust gases being exposed to the environment.

Faulty lambda sensor symptoms

The oxygen sensor degrades over time. The life span of a lambda sensor is difficult to state. It depends on several factors. If you regularly drive short distances by car, the service life is often shorter. In addition, other factors such as engine oil and poor quality gasoline have an impact on the service life too. On average a lambda sensor should be changed at around 100.000 miles to guarantee optimal operation.

Deposits from carbon, for example, can negatively influence the operation of the oxygen sensor. A faulty lambda sensor can be recognized by a number of symptoms. First of all, there is a good chance that with a defective sensor, the Check Engine light will come on. Other symptoms may include:

Increase in harmful exhaust gas emissions;
Increase in fuel consumption;
Poor performance or defective catalyst;
Car running rough (also with a warm engine);
The vehicle feels laggy and is responding slower than normal.

Do you recognize these symptoms? There is a chance that the lambda sensor is due for a replacement. To find out if it is actually a defective sensor, you can check the sensor with a code reader. A garage can do this for you if you don't have a reader. Is the lambda sensor faulty? Then it is important to replace it.

Lambda sensor replacement

A lambda sensor can be easily replaced by yourself to save money. How to replace the oxygen sensor exactly is difficult to describe, because it differs per brand and type of car. But replacing a lambda sensor works something like this;

Depending on where the lambda sensor is located; first, remove the upper motor cover or put the car on axle stands. Use a spanner to unscrew the lambda sensor. Is it too stuck? Then you can use penetrating oil like WD40. Then follow the wire to the connector and disconnect it. Do you want to replace the oxygen sensor that connects to the catalyst converter? Then it is necessary to jack the car up with a car jack. Then place axle stands under your car for your safety. Have you removed the lambda sensor (s)? Always check this for damage or contamination. If you are going to reassemble the new lambda, first lubricate the thread with the grease or paste supplied. You can then put the sensor back in and tighten it. Then re-attach the electrical wiring.

Find the correct lambda sensor for your car

You can buy an oxygen sensor quickly and easily at Winparts. Enter your number plate or car model on the site and the suitable products for your car will be displayed. Only suitable parts will be shown so you are sure they will fit your car. You can also contact us for other car parts for the exhaust system such as exhaust backbox, downpipe, turbos and mounting parts.

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Lambda sensor

A lambda sensor or oxygen sensor is a sensor in the exhaust of a petrol engine car. This sensor measures the air and fuel mixture after the combustion process of the engine. When the lambda sensor warning light comes up in the instrument cluster of your car, you must test the sensor (or have it tested). If the warning lights are on, the oxygen sensor is probably due for replacement or there is something wrong with the combustion process in the engine. A defective lambda can lead to more fuel consumption and a rough running engine. You can order a new one quickly and easily at Winparts. Winparts sells lambda sensors from brands like Bosch, NGK, Beru and Blueprint.

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