Did you know that a malfunctioning oxygen sensor can turn on the check engine light (CEL)? Service Masters would be happy to replace the oxygen sensor in your automobile if the CEL has turned on. Aside from the check engine warning, you will also notice the following. It’s surprising how much an oxygen sensor can mess with your vehicle’s engine and exhaust system.
Poor Engine Performance
The O2 sensor is tasked with reporting the level of oxygen in your vehicle’s exhaust to the engine control unit. Also called the ECU, this unit uses the information provided by the O2 sensor to ensure there is plenty of air and fuel in the combustion chamber. If the unit makes unnecessary adjustments in the chamber due to a malfunctioning O2 sensor, your vehicle’s engine performance will lag or surge.
Noticeable Gas Mileage Problems
Whether the engine is lacking or surging, you will notice a significant reduction in your vehicle’s gas mileage. Unfortunately, this is indirectly due to the malfunctioning oxygen sensor. Anytime the engine does not run efficiently it will burn more fuel. Replacing the O2 sensor will restore your engine’s efficient performance and its ability to get good gas mileage.
Clogged Catalytic Converter
If the O2 sensor has reported incorrect oxygen levels to the ECU and it puts more fuel in the combustion chamber when the engine doesn’t need it, this will overload the catalytic converter with hydrocarbons. Consequently, the catalytic converter will get clogged and start to release rotten egg odors in the exhaust. You may also smell these odors in the engine bay.
Black Engine Exhaust Smoke
Another sign that the catalytic converter is having problems is black exhaust smoke flowing out of the tailpipe. This suggests that the converter was unable to treat the exhaust before releasing it through the rest of the exhaust system. Black exhaust is also an indication that the engine is burning too much fuel. You do not want either of these things going on.
Increased Harmful Emissions
Finally, because the catalytic converter is being indirectly affected by the faulty O2 sensor, there will be an increase of harmful emissions in your vehicle’s exhaust. If you live in a state that tests vehicle emissions, your car, SUV, or truck is likely to fail the test.
Service Masters in Clearwater, FL, is here to help, so give us a call today to set up a service appointment so we can test your oxygen sensor.