OXYGEN SENSORS: THE VITAL COMPONENT OF YOUR CAR'S EMISSIONS SYSTEM

When the check engine light comes on in your dashboard, it may cause your blood pressure to shoot up, but know that there are many causes for this morning light, including a faulty oxygen sensor. Remember that sensor means easy rather than optional. You need to bring your vehicle to a mechanic right away.

Oxygen sensors help regulate the air-fuel ratio in your car's engine. The ignition of air and fuel causes each explosion in the combustion chamber. When there's too much fuel, this means the system is running rich, and your car's performance will suffer. Oxygen sensors were developed in the late 1960s for use in vehicles. The original sensor was made of ceramic coated in zirconia and platinum. The modernized oxygen sensor was developed in 1990 for the Honda Civic and Accord. They're made of layers of high-temperature, cofired ceramic green tapes. When functioning, the oxygen sensor ensures your engine is running at its top performance. Sensors also watch your emissions and alert you when they're too excessive. The number of sensors in your vehicle varies based on engine type. Traditional V-6 or V-8 engines will have three oxygen sensors, including a left bank and right bank of sensors, upstream and downstream. Four-cylinder engines have just the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors. When a gasoline-powered engine burns gasoline, there's oxygen present. Oxygen in the engine results from many factors, including air temperature, altitude, engine temperature, load on the engine, and barometric pressure. Generally, your oxygen sensors are different from the maintenance items that need to be replaced regularly, like oil or air filters. They're usually only replaced when they fail. Suppose you have an illuminated check engine sensor. In that case, that's usually a good clue that it's time to have your oxygen sensor checked.

GET YOUR COMPUTER DIAGNOSTIC FROM US!

In Orange County, California, the ASE-certified technicians at Foothill Auto Service are experts in diagnostic repair. Whether you drive a Jeep, Honda, or Mercedes, we can care for your vehicle. Our automotive repair technicians will treat your vehicle with the care and respect it deserves. We can perform the computer diagnostic test necessary to determine if your oxygen sensor is wrong or if the problem with your check engine light is something else. Our technicians will do everything from brake work to auto air-conditioning and everything in between. We offer a free shuttle service, cars, same-day service, and after-hours drop-off and pick-up for all our customers. You'll leave our shop with peace of mind from a three-year/unlimited-mile warranty on our work. We're open five days a week and we'll get you back on the road as quickly as possible. We specialize in major and minor repairs and will gladly talk to you about financing. Give us a call today, and we will run the diagnostics. You need to check on your check engine light.