Consensus on O2 sensors?

[chief88]

Just threw the Bank 2 sensor 1 code this morning and about to call C-Dan. What are the thoughts on should I just replace the bad one or both "upstream" sensors.

Any advice appreciated

[chief88]

Hey - thought of another question - so I don't have to go to Autozone to reset CEL (after new O2 sensor installed) - is it true I can just disconnect the battery for a few minutes to reset CEL?

[Travis351]

I would only replace the bad one. One of my upstream sensors went bad at 126k, I replaced it and now have 181k and the other one is still not throwing a code. Disconnecting the battery did clear the trouble code for me, so you won't need to reset it with a computer.

[gaylon]

Originally Posted by Travis351

I would only replace the bad one. One of my upstream sensors went bad at 126k, I replaced it and now have 181k and the other one is still not throwing a code. Disconnecting the battery did clear the trouble code for me, so you won't need to reset it with a computer.

I have gone 4k miles since replacing the upstream without getting a code from the downstream. I hope to go 55k like Travis... I would only replace them as the codes pop up.

[Travis351]

Whoops...126k is when I got my BFG's. Sorry fellas, the miles just roll on by anymore. You know, a lotta ins, a lotta outs, a lotta what-have-yous. And uh, lotta strands to keep in my head, man. Lotta strands in old Duder's head.

My records show that my Bank 2 Sensor 1 02 sensor was replaced on 7/30/2007 with 155,360 on the clock.

[ginericLC]

I did both upstream but only had one that was bad. I figured if one went then the other was going to go too. Maybe I messed up?

[hoser]

Like ginericLC, I replaced both upstream but in hopes of getting better mileage/performance. I'm guessing an O2 sensor can lose accuracy over time without throwing a code. Just look what it is subjected to! I haven't put enough miles on it yet to determine whether my fuel efficiency has gone up yet.

[Greg B]

I replaced just the bad one and haven't had any codes in about 2 years. Don't remember how many miles its been.

[Trunk Monkey]

I'd be purely expense motivated, so I'd only replace them as they go bad.

[NMuzj100]

I vote for "If it's not broke don't fix it."

[Grego]

I also replaced one of the upstream sensors about 6 weeks ago. I got a code and replaced the other upstream sensor last week. Thought I would take the chance and save a little cash only replacing 1 at a time. Just lucky I guess.

[super90]

Most FSMs recommend new O2 sensors about every 75k or 90k miles. It becomes a "tune up" item of sorts. They do lose accuracy and your FI is using their output to manage the mixture.

But, you gotta do whatever helps you sleep well at night.

Keep the Cruiser Faith !

[ginericLC]

I have a used good one should anyone choose to just fix the broke one. I'd let it go cheap.

[kyoso23]

I replaced both to keep each bank even. They do "wear out" after awhile, but don't throw a code until they're out of range. It certainly will not hurt anything by only changing the one that's failed though. It's up to your wallet really.

[blossett]

You do not need to disconnect the battery after replacement. I changed a passenger side upstream last week and the check engine light went out after about 100 miles.

[kyoso23]

Originally Posted by blossett

You do not need to disconnect the battery after replacement. I changed a passenger side upstream last week and the check engine light went out after about 100 miles.

IMO its always a good idea to reset your ECU after changing a component like a sensor though, it puts your ECU back to stock settings and lets it "relearn" with the clean sensors.