Oxygen Sensor Replacement - DIY?

[td873]

Does anyone know if there is a DIY for replacing O2 sensors? I searched using many variations of "sensor" and "oxygen" and "replace/install/change" but I couldn't locate one.

FWIW, I have 2 codes with my CEL: P1275 along with P0420.

Thanks,

Tom

[Loren]

P0420 TWC Conversion, Bank 1 – Above Limit

Potential causes:

– Catalytic converter

P1275 Signal Delay Time for Oxygen Sensor Aging, Bank 1 – Above/Below Limit

– Oxygen sensor ahead of TWC

– Leak ahead of TWC or in the area of the oxygen sensor after TWC

– Wiring (oxygen sensors exchanged)

The only tricks to changing the O2 sensors are having the right tool (slotted 19 mm socket) and NOT using any sort of penetrating oil etc. anywhere near the sensors.

[wsrgklt]

@Loren Reviving an old thread because I'm about to change the pre-cat O2 sensors on my '99 C2 coupe and I had a question for you.

 

Why avoid using penetrating oils? Lots of advice on other forums recommend starting with WD-40 or PB Blaster, as the threads get corroded and stuck in place. I'm kind of new to wrenching, so I want to do this job the right way.

[Loren]

27 minutes ago, wsrgklt said:

@Loren Reviving an old thread because I'm about to change the pre-cat O2 sensors on my '99 C2 coupe and I had a question for you.

 

Why avoid using penetrating oils? Lots of advice on other forums recommend starting with WD-40 or PB Blaster, as the threads get corroded and stuck in place. I'm kind of new to wrenching, so I want to do this job the right way.

 

Because if you get oil (of any kind) on the O2 sensors - they are toast.

[JFP in PA]

If the sensors are going to be changed out, a good penetrating oil should not be an issue.  If they are going to be reused, I would heat the sensor bung with a torch before pulling on the wrench.  In either case, a very small amount of anti seize on the threads of the sensor before installation is a wise move to avoid future maintenance issues. 

[wsrgklt]

17 hours ago, JFP in PA said:

If the sensors are going to be changed out, a good penetrating oil should not be an issue.  If they are going to be reused, I would heat the sensor bung with a torch before pulling on the wrench.  In either case, a very small amount of anti seize on the threads of the sensor before installation is a wise move to avoid future maintenance issues. 

 

I'm planning to replace my sensors, so I thought it might be ok to apply a little penetrating oil and then clean the threads before inserting the new one. I'll try without any oil first and see how badly they're frozen. I've read the new replacements sensors come from the factory with anti-seize on the threads. My parts haven't arrived yet, but I'll check to be sure. Thanks!