Is it simple to change 02 sensor
#1
Is it simple to change 02 sensor
My check engine light just went on on my 89 runner and the code came back as the 02 sensor no good , which explains the terrible gas mileage and uneven idle. So I ordered one from denso because the dealer no longer carries the one that matches my vin. Number so the denso is a oe replacement which comes with a connector on the end of it which is supposed to just plug right in , so iam wondering if I can change this myself ? Do you just remove the two nuts and unplug it ? Is that all to it ?
And disconnect the negative post to the battery and reconnect it to reset the check engine light? are there anything I should look out for or is it a simple install ? And input would help thanks .
And disconnect the negative post to the battery and reconnect it to reset the check engine light? are there anything I should look out for or is it a simple install ? And input would help thanks .
#2
Registered User
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: middle of no where Alaska
Posts: 4,355
Likes: 0
Received 2 Likes
on
2 Posts
Technically speaking, yes that is all that you need to do. But, the O2 sensors LOVE to corrode into the exhaust pipe, and they are usually pretty tight fitting into the hole. Its easier if you drop the down pipe (manifold to cat. converter). Most likely you will strip out at least the two nuts/studs holding the O2 sensor in. If you drop the pipe, plan for new bolts/studs/nuts all around. You have been warned
#3
Technically speaking, yes that is all that you need to do. But, the O2 sensors LOVE to corrode into the exhaust pipe, and they are usually pretty tight fitting into the hole. Its easier if you drop the down pipe (manifold to cat. converter). Most likely you will strip out at least the two nuts/studs holding the O2 sensor in. If you drop the pipe, plan for new bolts/studs/nuts all around. You have been warned
#5
Registered User
iTrader: (1)
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Posts: 314
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Nah, don't be scared of it. Hit the O2 studs with a good penetrating oil once a day for a couple days beforehand, they should come off without too much struggle. You can still drive the truck even if they do strip out, so try it yourself before paying for a simple job like this.
#6
Contributing Member
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: TENN Native Languishing in Virginia
Posts: 4,787
Likes: 0
Received 34 Likes
on
14 Posts
You'll need to soak the nuts with PB Blaster (WalMart) for several days as stated, then scrub well with a steel brush to remove all the rust (they probably don't even look like nuts right now!). They are under there!
I had to split the nuts with a Dremel to get them to let go. Also, you'll most likely have to grind off the gasket as it will be rusted to the flange.
I had to split the nuts with a Dremel to get them to let go. Also, you'll most likely have to grind off the gasket as it will be rusted to the flange.
Last edited by TNRabbit; 04-06-2012 at 04:42 AM.
#7
Super Moderator
Staff
iTrader: (1)
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Anderson Missouri
Posts: 11,788
Likes: 0
Received 21 Likes
on
19 Posts
On mine, I usually just take it to an exhaust shop and can have them put the new in for me for $25. Most O2 are so burnt, I cant get them off. Exhaust shops can have it done if in a few minutes. Got to have the part for them and it just plugs in. May need to clear the code after they put it in. Just unplug the battery for a minute or so.
Trending Topics
#8
Registered User
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Oakville, ON, CA
Posts: 64
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
On mine, I usually just take it to an exhaust shop and can have them put the new in for me for $25. Most O2 are so burnt, I cant get them off. Exhaust shops can have it done if in a few minutes. Got to have the part for them and it just plugs in. May need to clear the code after they put it in. Just unplug the battery for a minute or so.
I've had alot of luck with sea foam lube, stuff works wonders best i've ever used. Is more of a foam than a liquid and seem to work much better/faster then pb, wd 40, ect
#9
Registered User
OR>......
get a header and install it with the new O2 sensor...and lots of anti-seize
BTW if you are not in the rust belt,, like Cali or Arizna, its not a hard job at all
get a header and install it with the new O2 sensor...and lots of anti-seize
BTW if you are not in the rust belt,, like Cali or Arizna, its not a hard job at all
#10
just did my o2 sensor yesterday, looked like complete s**t but surprisingly I was able to get the two nuts off with just a ratcheting wrench. Easy enough to install after that, just unscrew the 3-4 bolts on door sill cover then reach your hand under the carpet and unplug it.
My runner purs now, gas mileage is up and it has power again when it's warmed up(o2 sensor giving false readings in closed loop i presumed).
My runner purs now, gas mileage is up and it has power again when it's warmed up(o2 sensor giving false readings in closed loop i presumed).
Last edited by 89StormTrooper; 04-07-2012 at 07:58 PM.
#11
Ok so since I need my truck to get to work and asking my mechanic how much he would charge me to replace the 02 sensor and he told me 20 bucks I just let him do it , brought him the aftermarket sensor I bought from denso since toyota no longer makes or stocks the correct sensor that matches my vin. Number anyway he had it replaced in about 15
min. And reset the check engine light , now she idles very smooth , just need
to see if I get better gas milage , however after about 5 min. Of driven my check engine light went back on so need to go back to mechanic to see what the problem is now
min. And reset the check engine light , now she idles very smooth , just need
to see if I get better gas milage , however after about 5 min. Of driven my check engine light went back on so need to go back to mechanic to see what the problem is now
Last edited by clok; 04-09-2012 at 07:16 PM.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
montanatruck
86-95 Trucks & 4Runners
15
02-26-2017 07:07 AM
WellsR
95.5-2004 Tacomas & 96-2002 4Runners
12
07-31-2015 03:27 PM