The oxygen sensor (also called a lambda sensor)
- Looks like a spark plug screwed into your catalytic converter
- It is an important part of your fuel injection system
- Continually tests the level of oxygen in the exhaust stream
- Feeds this information to the fuel injection computer
- Too much oxygen (the engine is running lean), tells the computer to send more fuel to the cylinders
- Too little oxygen (the engine is running rich), tells the computer to send less fuel to the cylinders
- Constantly fine-tuning to ensure the proper air/fuel ratio
A bad oxygen sensor will continually tell the computer that the engine
is too lean, and the computer will respond by sending more fuel.
This is bad, not only for fuel economy and emissions, but a rich mixture
will eventually burn out your catalytic converters, possibly causing a
fuel fire inside the exhaust system, which can then spread to the rest
of your car. It’s a bad thing.
According to Jaguar and the other auto manufacturers, the oxygen
sensor should be replaced every 30,000 miles to ensure trouble-free performance.
There are two different types of oxygen sensors, sensors with one
wire and sensors with three wires. The three wire sensors have a
built-in heating element that brings the sensor up to operating temperature
quickly. When you replace the sensor, be sure to get the correct
type for your car. If your Jag is less than 5 years old, you may
be able to get the oxygen sensor replaced under warranty, even if the warranty
for the rest of the car has expired. It’s worth checking out.
The V12-equipped cars have two oxygen sensors, while the six-cylinder cars
only have one.
See our Jaguar Parts Store Catalog to order parts.
