What Are the Symptoms of a Bad Oxygen Sensor?

As a car owner, it's important to be aware of the symptoms of a bad oxygen sensor. Read on to discover the symptoms of a bad oxygen sensor.

What Is an Oxygen Sensor Inside a Vehicle?

This crucial piece of equipment measures the oxygen in your car's exhaust. If it isn't functioning properly, it can cause several problems. Here are some symptoms of a bad oxygen sensor that needs to be replaced.

1. The Check Engine Light Is On

One of the most common symptoms of a bad oxygen sensor is that the check engine light on your dash will be illuminated. This is because the oxygen sensor is responsible for monitoring the air-fuel mixture in your engine, and when it senses that the mixture is too rich or too lean, it will trigger the check engine light.

2. Your Engine Is Running Rough

Another symptom of a bad oxygen sensor is that your engine will run rough. This is because the oxygen sensor is responsible for maintaining the correct air-fuel mixture in your engine, and when it goes bad, the mixture can become too rich or too lean, which can cause your engine to run rough.

3. Your Fuel Economy Has Decreased

If you notice that your fuel economy has decreased, it could be a sign that your oxygen sensor is going bad. This is because when the oxygen sensor goes bad, it can cause the air-fuel mixture in your engine to become too rich or too lean, which can lead to increased fuel consumption.

4. You're Experiencing Misfires

Misfires are another symptom of a bad oxygen sensor. When an oxygen sensor goes bad, it can cause the air-fuel mixture in your engine to become too rich or too lean, which can lead to misfires. Misfires can cause a loss of power and damage your catalytic converter.

5. Your Exhaust Smells Funny

If you notice that your exhaust smells funny, it could be a sign that your oxygen sensor is going bad. This is because when the oxygen sensor goes bad, it can cause the air-fuel mixture in your engine to become too rich or too lean, which can lead to an increase in emissions and a corresponding increase in exhaust odor.