The O2 sensor, also known as an oxygen sensor, measures the oxygen level within your vehicle’s exhaust. As you’re driving your car, the sensor is constantly measuring the oxygen level in the exhaust compared to the oxygen level in the atmosphere. Your car’s computer will change the fuel mixture it sends to the engine depending on the levels it reads.
If your O2 sensor fails, it will significantly impact your car’s health and your wallet. One of the most common symptoms of a failing sensor is the poor gas mileage. If you suspect your sensor is failing, bring your car to Catlett’s Service Center & Towing for a diagnostic exam. Our friendly technicians can diagnose and fix your failing sensor in no time.
Symptoms of a Failing O2 Sensor
If you notice any of these issues, you may have a faulty O2 sensor:
Poor gas mileage – A faulty sensor will send a very rich fuel blend to the engine. This results in poor gas mileage and increased fuel costs.
Check engine light kicks on – A check engine light could come on for several reasons. If you notice these other symptoms along with the check engine light, it could mean a faulty O2 sensor.
Black smoke in the exhaust – The additional gas pumped into the car’s engine from a failing sensor can cause black smoke to come out of the exhaust pipe.
Misfiring engine – Without the proper ratio of fuel delivered, the engine could misfire or stop working altogether.
How to Fix a Failing O2 Sensor
If you suspect a failing O2 sensor, it is imperative to schedule an appointment with Catlett’s Service Center & Towing as quickly as possible. Not only could your engine become damaged, but you would also be burning through a large quantity of gas until the issue is fixed. Although the sensor is not a well-known component in the car, it has major implications for your car’s running—Call Catlett’s Service Center & Towing at 410-798-5446 to schedule an appointment for a diagnostic exam.