How to Remove a Stuck or Seized O2 Sensor

How to remove a seized oxygen sensor. I’m working with a 1998 Ford Ranger, unfortunately there is an issue with the oxygen sensor and it needs to be replaced. Typically oxygen sensors will come with an anti seized pre applied from factory, however with age this can eventually wear off. You’ll be tackling with both rust and soot in the exhaust, if the sensor has been there for a longer period, there is a greater change of tackling these issues. If you’re wondering how to test or troubleshoot a faulty oxygen sensor, I do have a video on this so be sure to check it out. #exhaust #emissions #autorepair
Amazon links for various products used in the video for both USA and Canada:
USA
Penetrating oil: amzn.to/2M2USgC
Small propane torch: amzn.to/2Lu4JvK
Dead blow hammers: amzn.to/37t25Or
Oxygen sensor socket: amzn.to/3s6sidx
Canada
Penetrating oil: amzn.to/2OQZYxD
Small propane torch: amzn.to/3jnkFMV
Dead blow hammers: amzn.to/2Nk4B2L
Oxygen sensor socket: amzn.to/3bifJoX
AutoPartsWay (CA): www.autopartsw...
AutoPartsWay (US): www.autopartsw...
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Tools/Supplies Needed:
-wrench or sensor socket
-propane torch
-new replacement sensor
-deadblow hammer
-penetrating oil
Procedure:
You’ll need to disconnect the sensor and disconnect any wires as need. There are special oxygen sensor sockets which has a spot for the wire, however in this situation the sensor is too close to the floor so there isn’t enough room for a ratchet. If it’s an old sensor, you can always cut the wire or sensor off, leaking the hex with the threaded insert.
I normally use the box end side of a wrench, it should fit over the electrical connector. Do not use the open end of a wrench as it can flex and doesn’t have a complete hold around the whole hex, there is a greater chance of stripping it.
If this fails, you can use the assistance of heat. A propane torch usually works great for this, in an extreme situation an acetylene torch maybe needed. Heat the sensor up around the bung, a good quality penetrating oil can be applied to further help assist the seized sensor.
If you don’t have access to a torch, even starting the vehicle and take it for a short drive, allowing the engine coming up to operating temperature and heating up the exhaust.
This method can be used with or without heat, hold the wrench into place, keep pressure on it and then hit to wrench with a hammer. Here I’m using a dead blower hammer which is filled with a weight inside to help provide force. The rubber exterior prevents the wrench from becoming damaged. This will shock the threads and can break the sensor loose.
Once that sensor is removed, if you were using heat you’ll need to be careful not to burn yourself.
Comparing the old and new sensors, to ensure they are the same. As mentioned earlier, AutoPartsWay has supplied me with the part and they carry a wide variety of sensors for your vehicle. A link will be provided in the description below. The new sensor is equipped with an anti-seize, be careful not to get this on the sensor portion.
Thread in the new sensor, do not allow the wire to become too twist as you can risk breaking the conductor.
Reconnect the plug, clip the wire into place so it doesn’t rub on any components and your vehicle is ready for the road again. If a check engine light is present, this will need to be cleared as well.
Thank you to all those who watch my videos and support my content. Don't forget to subscribe to my channel for future tutorial videos and like my video if you found it helpful. New videos are always being uploaded every week!
© 4DIYers 2013
All Rights Reserved
No part of this video or any of its contents may be reproduced, copied, modified or adapted, without the prior written consent of the author.

[@4DIYers]

Amazon links for various products used in the video for both USA and Canada: USA Penetrating oil: amzn.to/2M2USgC Small propane torch: amzn.to/2Lu4JvK Dead blow hammers: amzn.to/37t25Or Oxygen sensor socket: amzn.to/3s6sidx Canada Penetrating oil: amzn.to/2OQZYxD Small propane torch: amzn.to/3jnkFMV Dead blow hammers: amzn.to/2Nk4B2L Oxygen sensor socket: amzn.to/3bifJoX

[@getfixing5547]

Having removed hundreds of these sensors, I've run into trouble by simply heating to remove a seized sensor. Heating the bung is great but often the threads are damaged on the way out. An additional tip I would offer up is after the bung (exhaust side) has been well heated, shock it with some cold water. Cool the exhaust enough to safely touch it. The rapid expansion and contraction breaks the rust free. The sensor comes out quite easily and I've never damaged one that way. Love the vids, always very clear, keep em coming! :)

[@geraldmartin3625]

Have you ever used CRC freeze off for a downstream sensor? Mine is facing up towards the body and I dont want to damage the bung.

[@catslivesmatter1268]

How about cutting the wire and using a torque socket

[@PlatoonGoon]

Going to try this on some stubborn sensors today, I'll let you know how it goes E: didn't work, I had to cut it off and use an extractor bolt with custom cut cheater bar. It was rough, not even combination wrench worked but we got it.

[@johnpiepke6061]

After heating red hit with a torch use a ice cube to cool rapidly.

[@Slim900]

@@catslivesmatter1268strips it

[@patrickperry6945]

You guys always demo the easiest sensor to remove. Try bank 2 on a ‘99 GMC Safari van. They are near impossible to even get to.

[@4DIYers]

I'm working on what's available to me. If you're having that hard of a time, it might be best to drop the exhaust.

[@sethb1059]

Wish my sensor was that exposed. Wow

[@AlphaEyad]

Ikr

[@FuskyTheHusky81]

dear god i'm having a hell of a time with my 98 ranger upstream sensors.. I couldn't imagine having less space! hell!

[@david99gtp]

Wish These methods worked for me. 03 Cadillac Deville bank 2. Can't even see it, only feel it. Mine is stuck no idea how I'm going to loosen it. With a socket wrench and multiple extensions to reach it I am unable to budge it.

[@0WaIIace]

Mans sensor are so exposed, he used his foot for leverage 😂😂😂

[@alexwatson8851]

Was in a bind removing the pre-cat sensor on my 2004 Forester XT which is cramped space wise at the best of times. The thing was rusted on so tight it may well have been welded on, no wd40 couldn't through the O2 sensor tool kept slipping. Being with a blowtorch I followed someone's advice to start up the car and run it for a bit to heat up the exhaust then sprayed more pebetrant and hey presto!

[@4DIYers]

Awesome to hear!

[@johne6081]

I just did one. It wasn't about to budge, so I sprayed Rust Blaster on it while the exhaust manifold was still warm (not super hot), let it sit for about 18 hours, and it came out easily.

[@Shmojoe14]

Nice video here. A trick I learned from a mechanic I met out back east actually used heat and then putting candle wax onto the seized bolt/sensor and it pulls it up into the threads. Good work man.

[@swamp-yankee]

So pretty much wax is applied just how this guy used penetrating oil? Thanks for sharing.

[@melfordnunley1493]

This video was very helpful to everyone who has a stuck O2 sensor, but it's always a couple of jerks who dislike everything. I don't know why they are like that, but thanks for the video.

[@4DIYers]

Thank you so much for the kind words! Unfortunately there will always be haters, some of the comments I get just in general are ridiculous. Thankfully it's only a handful of people.

[@ValdoLokz]

Like the guy a couple comments up complaining about ads. I don't think he understands how KZbin works.

[@13lueBomber]

#4DIYers: I have a 2001 Dodge Ram 1500 V8 2WD, and I was replacing the downstream 02 sensor, and they were BOTH stuck on there pretty damn good. The clip part was stuck the most. I literally had to break the housing of the clip apart just to get it off. That’s how BAD it was. Jesus Christ, I HOPE the other oxygen sensor won’t be as tight/stuck as the downstream sensor was. Hopefully I’ll NEVER have to change it. Fingers crossed, bois. Haha. Anyway, this was a very helpful video. I appreciated it!

[@4DIYers]

Always happy to help and thank you :) If they have some type of anti seize applied, it usually helps down the road. But it may burn off slowly with the heat too.

[@13lueBomber]

4DIYers I will definitely keep that in mind... I appreciate it. 🤙🏼👌🏼

[@ryanlynch2259]

Thanks for the reassurance that I had to cut the wire to get the whole wrench on that baby! Have a nice day

[@4DIYers]

No problem, happy to help :)

[@kurtwm2010]

downstream is always easy.... upstream sensors are what kill you trying to get them out.

[@Bigjay88888]

Im having trouble downstream

[@kurtwm2010]

@@Bigjay88888 Lots of penetrating oil might help. Start soaking 24 hours before attempting to remove. Heat from a propane torch and a breaker bar extension can also help and NEVER try brute sudden force, but short jerks on the wrench.

[@FuskyTheHusky81]

holy shit tell me about it.. on my 98 ranger ive been putting penetrating oil on it for 2 weeks, have broken a sensor socket and managed to twist the sensor itself. still hasnt moved a damn mm'! Fuck!

[@The513Warning]

It's the opposite for me. My upstream came out no problem. It's the downstream that's in there good for me. Even on ramps, I only have enough room to just barely move around which makes it a real bitch to get out.

[@michaelheary5663]

Thank you! Worked like a champ! PB blaster Heat Hammer came right out.

[@4DIYers]

You're welcome and awesome to hear!

[@NJKiwis]

This method worked like a charm for me - thank you!

[@4DIYers]

Awesome to hear and happy to help!

[@GuyMahoney]

Heads up, the hottest part is just ahead of the blue flame where the gas has burnt completely invisible

[@rihovaher]

The best way to remove the lambda sensor from the cast iron exhaust manifold is to heat the cast iron manifold near the sensor from several sides, if the sensor is broken, cut the wire and carefully unscrew the sensor with a long hex key, if you use a split key, which is more suitable for installing a new sensor, you can turn the edges of the sensor round.

[@screamerchaotix5182]

Look at that gorgeous leverage you have...sweet, beautiful leverage. May I borrow some? Bernzomatic, o2 socket, breaker bar, liquid wrench...nothing. If only I had LEVERAGE.

[@kingtimlocs6584]

Me too buddy. No leverage

[@Evangelistaadventures]

Awesome content! Really helpful and straight to the point! Thanks!

[@lambfur64]

Thank you! really concise and exactly what I was looking for! Subscribing now.

[@4DIYers]

Thank you so much for the support and feedback :)

[@m.a.jensen2415]

Dont use the penetrating oil whilst using the torch.......... Boom! Use parrafin wax no fumes .

[@sengl1542]

Impact Wrench / Cut Wire / 22mm Deep Socket = best fit / Wd-40 / Loosen then Tighten & Spray the WD40 til comes out quickly with the gun

[@robertovasquez866]

Just as ibwas about to give up it loosened up. I had to go several rounds of heat, spray, u tightening and repeat. I lost a bit of patience hammering in addition to heat so I went for the breaker bar but it wasnt enough so i added a pipe. I pulled the bar and hammered the socket. Finally it gave. Next time I'll try that crows foot design with an impact wrench

[@dannicholas9267]

my problem is the "push pull, hold the tiny pin"...getting one hand up to hold clip, the other, to push while holding the release pin...a topl for this? tried 6x...even w two people

[@dannicholas9267]

hey...w the help of this forum...AND, the simple trick of removing the wheel, and putting my 02, F150 on jacks...DID IT...used "small sandard screwdriver...wiggle, wiggle" thanks! ...had me stumpped for 6 months...now to get the check engine light to go out...

[@The513Warning]

I bought a propane torch a month ago just for this but I have this irrational fear that I'm gonna blow up the second I touch the torch on the sensor. I don't have a gas vapor leak or anything... Just irrational fear.

[@catherinefisher6188]

Same here! I really don’t want to have to get a torch because I’m afraid of what might happen with it, lol.

[@The513Warning]

@@catherinefisher6188 I'm still alive and nothing happened, fortunately. I ended up needing a MAPP torch and used an impact wrench to get mine out, then used a thread chaser to clean it up.

[@redlostsouls]

Thank you for your video very informative and thank you for not putting ads it would have gotten you a thumbs down

[@4DIYers]

Thank you! Not everyone sees ads, I believe it alternates between the videos you watch, but I do have them on my videos. It's how I get paid, other than that I'm producing these videos for free.

[@redlostsouls]

I understand that is how you make money but it's b.s. you should make money just by the post it's self that is why I give thumbs down I hate ads that are a waste of my time

[@StuartOliver83]

Cheers I’m off upstairs to do mine on my e34👍🏻🇬🇧

[@4DIYers]

BMW

[@StuartOliver83]

Hahaaa same here mate but alway seem to go back to e34 I had a 38 and 46 too and years back I had an E28 which was nice

[@maikeru01]

E36 here!

[@StuartOliver83]

4DIYers e32 is the one I never had but only because I missed it due to my ex telling the guy he had the wrong number 😞

[@StuartOliver83]

Nega_Weeb love the e36 👍🏻🇬🇧

[@maikeru01]

Most people don't have a lift. We can only get the car a foot off the ground. You can't hit it with a hammer when you're laying under it. I'll try the torch. If that doesn't work idk what I'm gonna do.

[@4DIYers]

I don't have a lift either, I just have those portable drive on ramps. You should be able to get it at the right angle. You can even use your foot for more force. That's how I loosened the bolts on the driveshaft for the giubo and csb replacement.

[@daddydman81]

Hello. I have a 04 Chevy Impala. With recent outdated tags, trying to renew, It needed an Emissions inspection done. Unfortunately it failed the emissions, but with the state sponsored VVRP, part of the cost is covered if I pay a down copay. Now the car is at the shop to be done, it reportedly has few O2 sensors and other problems to be replaced. Shop calls me and informs me the 02 Sensor inbed in the Exhaust manifold is swelled up inside, stuck, and won't come out. He says "we can apply force and remove it, but could cause damage" to the manifold. Are they being honest? It seems like a ruse. "If manifold is damaged, it could cost 3+ hrs in labor and another 550 for the part. Hasn't the car been designed for this? The O2 sensor supposed to come out some how. How can the shop get the O2 Sensor out without damaging the Exhaust Manifold?? Thanks.

[@liveandletlive2894]

They're not wrong

[@fishindudefrank3855]

Sooooo, how’d it go?

[@johnkelly937]

I did infact find it helpful my man but you sound like a tour bus driver 🤣

[@travonmiller5279]

Lol

[@gunners4129]

The red wrench gets it every time 😉

[@13lueBomber]

Gunner Schenck ..... but ....... I never spotted a RED wrench? 🔧 🤔 🔧

[@gunners4129]

To a mechanic, it means a torch or open flame

[@13lueBomber]

Gunner Schenck Well, you learn something new everyday. 🤔

[@robitaill3]

What do you do if none of these attempts work?

[@donaldfox4418]

If and when I change the oxygen sensor and the light is on how do I clear it

[@4DIYers]

It'll either erase on it's own, you can used a scan tool, or disconnect the battery for a period of time.

[@davidwalls6240]

What if my sensor is not straight like that. My is in a bend of the excault.... Goes down sensor the goes up. I can't even get a wrench in there. Can u show me this one. I got a 02 Impala. Can u help. Please and thank u. If u can.

[@4DIYers]

You'll most likely need to drop the exhaust unfortunately.

[@andrewaguirre7872]

What size

[@robinhockett1191]

What happens when they say it ok .when you up Upstream done

[@jaquaviousharris4141]

What do you mean by not letting wire twist I just replaced mine engine light still on

[@4DIYers]

Don’t let the wire twist when installing or removing the sensor. Copper work hardens and can break if it’s being twisted when rotating the sensor.

[@jaquaviousharris4141]

@4DIYers I made sure it didn't twist is it possible it's a defected o2 sensor? The engine is running better just can't get rid of the engine light

[@4DIYers]

Did you use a reputable brand or a cheap version? Sometimes you may get lucky with a cheap one, but they are commonly known to fail quicker or cause faults right away. Have you disconnected the battery?

[@abdelfettahayadi5642]

OK it's all nice and danddy but what about if have the sonsor on top of the cat, tuckled in under steering wheel column without out much leverage to move a centimeter?

[@liveandletlive2894]

Similar issue now '91 Bronco not much room to move, but its not that bad.

[@abdelfettahayadi5642]

@@liveandletlive2894 I have a G37S and I've been trying to change the driver side O2 sensor. It's been a nightmare, changed all 3 of them but that one asshole of a sensor do not want to come off.

[@MrDoomzy]

What size is the wrench you were using??

[@proliance]

7/8

[@teiaperigosa]

helpful. thanks

[@4DIYers]

No problem!

[@matthewclark8290]

Any advice on performing this method on a stripped sensor?

[@4DIYers]

Vise grips would be the best option or a pipe wrench may also work.

[@matthewclark8290]

4DIYers thanks! I was able to get it off today

[@ZBrink11]

@@matthewclark8290 What did you end up using?

[@fishindudefrank3855]

How’s you do it? I’ve heard the pipe wrench method several times but that’s if you have the room. So how’d it go?

[@4DIYers]

Amazon Tool Recommendations: amzn.to/3QrjM8c Current retailers partnered with me & coupon codes: eManualOnline website: shrsl.com/3vcz4 Coupon Code: 4DIYERS20 (20% off any order) ECS Tuning Website: bit.ly/46tMpXP Auxbeam website: auxbeam.com/?ref=4DIYERS Coupon code: 4DIYERMR10 (10% off any order) Teslong website: teslong.com Coupon code: 4DIYERS (10% off any order) Lanmodo website: shrsl.com/3vczf Coupon code: LMD4DIYERS (Save $50 off order) Auxito website: www.auxito.com/?ref=xR3VZnDW Coupon code: 4DIYERS (15% off any order) Headlight Revolution website: www.headlightrevolution.com Coupon code: 4DIYERS (Free shipping on all US orders)

[@joeblow1942]

Got any suggestions if the sensor plug is damaged in a way that the wrench will slip around the sensor thus causing further damage?

[@4DIYers]

Vice grips would be an option, but a pipe wrench may also work too. In the worse case scenario, cut the sensor off but leave the nut portion and weld on a nut.

[@Evangelistaadventures]

Quality bolt out kits will take off strip bolt sometimes. Or you can cut off sensor with dremel extension and weld on another nut to strip nut and crank out.

[@catrionaleo2009]

Nice trick, however a 1997 Ford Expedition does not give that much working room.

[@robertrose3068]

Won't work for me. The downstream sensor on a Sonata 2.0 is just before the 2nd cat (1st one is the exhaust manifold), just underneath the firewall area and horizontally. 0 leverage unless I use 3-4 long extensions on the o2 socket lol. Been soaking WD40 for a while, driving, soaking, no luck. The torch is the only thing I haven't tried. At this point, it's probably easier just to have a shop remove it.

[@4DIYers]

Use something better than WD40, my recommendation would be Kroil.

[@robertrose3068]

@@4DIYers As I said, there's no leverage. I don't have an impact gun either. Having someone break it loose tomorrow after I get the BG Engine Restoration and 3 step fuel system services. These GDI engines can be a pain.

[@Akhazmat907]

Yep but nope lol. I got the 22 mm open box wrench and and it still won't let got. 2003 Ford ranger Never changed o2 sensors tell now. And nothing works. Heat or lube. What now

[@4DIYers]

Try map gas or acetylene.

[@miloregnix_vlogs293]

Cries in bmw e92 bank 1 and 2 sensor 2 in most awkward place

[@alexyurick8803]

Wat are the pros and cons of deleting the o2 sensors in my 2001 dodge ram 1500 4x4 . 5.2 motor?

[@mwinther19]

Deleting them? Umm, cons are your truck will not run correctly, if at all.

[@4DIYers]

Deleting them would result in your vehicle not having a proper air/fuel mixture. Hard starts, poor performance, poor fuel economy, etc.

[@bigsassyster]

i can never disconnect the sensor clips. They always seem to be glued in or something. Worst design ever.

[@eliaswesley2183]

You made it look easy yo

[@jollywarcry]

What size wrench did you use? Thanks

[@raitissulmanis8869]

Rick Healey 7/8

[@4DIYers]

Depends on the size of sensor, there's a couple different sizes.

[@texican512]

Just use a heat gun if you don’t have the torch works for me 😇

[@4DIYers]

Great tip, thanks for sharing!

[@svg09851]

will the heat alone destroy the sensor?

[@sschickens]

You'd be replacing the sensor, so destroying wouldn't be a problem, right?

[@svg09851]

@@sschickens ultimately removing transmission so I'd like to keep the o2 sensors and put them back.

[@sschickens]

@@svg09851 Oh, ok, that makes sense.

[@laboratorio7133]

Awesome

[@4DIYers]

Thank you!

[@RededicateYrLife]

Do not use Penatrating oil wd-40 flammable with torch

[@4DIYers]

Most penetrating oils are flammable. They're a petroleum base and you just need to be careful. I believe non-flammable versions are available.

[@blueovalfan23]

Not really helpful. I tried shocking it. Thought about a torch but haven't got one. Was looking for a trick i haven't heard of. I'm sure the video is helpful to many though.

[@The513Warning]

It's a late response, but hopefully helpful. Those propane torches go for about $25 USD. I thought they'd be super expensive until I looked at some. Even MAPP torches go for about $50 at Home Depot.

[@pikachudefendertheteslaguy3732]

Who can do this for me in SoCal? I will pay. DIY myself but couldn’t do it... 2008 Honda Odyssey bank 1