How to Test an Oxygen Sensor - Plus Oxygen Sensor Operation and Replacement Guide

In this video I'll go over in detail how an Oxygen Sensor works and operates, also how you can diagnose and replace a bad oxygen sensor, using nothing but a basic multimeter. This video is about O2 or Oxygen sensors not to be confused with Air Fuel Ratio Sensors that are on newer cars. They
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Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of Ratchetsand Wrenches, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. Ratchetsand Wrenches assumes no liability for any property or personal damage that may arise from doing a repair on your vehicle after watching any of my repair video's. Due to factors beyond the control of Ratchetsand Wrenches, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Again Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Ratchetsand Wrenches.

[@spelunkerd]

You've got a real talent for communicating and simplifying complex topics. This was the best overview of oxygen sensor diagnostics I've ever found.

[@myRatchets]

thanks spelunkerd, I like to simplify things and break them down in segments so most can understand what's going on.

[@Kevin-wy8kc]

thats exacly what i was thinking

[@Kevin-wy8kc]

thanks bro

[@roywaguespack8162]

@@myRatchets hhggggggg hu h be by gbbb by ghbbbhgggvvvbn

[@michaelpigeon3591]

Excellent video,well explained.😊

[@amoswhite6942]

2019....and after watching this video, I feel like an expert mechanic. Thank you..

[@LivingWithTheGuzmans]

The best video I have seen great job, great info and very clear.

[@lionelbartlett5388]

Thanks for you information.

[@philipkahn5235]

Very well done video. I've looked at a lot of videos on O2 sensor diagnostics and this was one of the best. Informative, but not too complex, and practical demonstration.

[@darrengunner1069]

That was a down to earth explanation of the O2 sensor & very simple ways to test it in a short period of time. THANKS GREAT JOB.

[@jgeorges3061]

NO, confusion what so ever very good explanation how the 02 works and how to test. always enjoy ur videos thanks and cheeers.

[@depthbrewedrollers.8793]

Thank you for this upload and for going above and beyond with the drawings. I’m a mechanic myself but it doesn’t fail the amount of ppl asking about their 02 sensors. Although easy to explain to someone else that also speaks the mechanic language, is not so easy trying to convey the whole circuitry and test procedures. Will definitely save and share to at least one guy I currently know that needs it. You got a subscriber also.

[@flyingratchet]

This video is fantastic-great job breaking down concepts with the right amount of detail. I am troubleshooting a P0420 code on my Tacoma and this was super helpful

[@david-an]

Years of experience well explained in a 12 minute video. Solid!

[@unmarti2high273]

Appreciate this Lesson a lot.. 3rd time watching the video today just to refresh my mind and already feeling like an expert 😅 Thanks for sharing knowledge

[@toroon]

Decent video. I watched twice before I checked mine. Your info was right on! Appreciate it brother.

[@ejo4454]

And here come the HATERZ ...Cmon Big Dawg! Decent Video? Share your video😅😅😅

[@TepcoCycleRepair]

Another good video, so as I always suspected an o2 sensor light doesn't always mean a bad sensor. I love getting to real root of the problem! Keep up the good work!

[@danarussell5063]

Great explanation! I was able to diagnose and fix my O2 sensor problem. CEL is off, no more P0411 codes, and I’m back on the road! Thank you.

[@patrickzambori473]

When you tested the single wire sensor with the voltmeter, the reason it wasn't switching back and forth in voltage was because the sensor was unplugged from the ECM, which created an open loop condition - without the feedback from the sensor, the ECM cannot modulate the pulsewith to switch the mixture rich/lean, so you wouldn't see it at the sensor.

[@MrBigsky13]

Patrick you didn't need to watch this, you already have this topic wired. Look at the big brain on Patrick you get A on today's test lol

[@felixcat4346]

Yes, simple Kirchoff's law, the disconnected one wire sensor could not possible complete a circuit.

[@tka5383]

He revved the engine which showed a change in sensor output.

[@MrNandiuxx]

Mi friend you're #1 explaining with not complicated words for an easy understanding and with a great knowledge of this matter, THANK YOU!

[@fljagfanPRIVATE]

Excellent tutorial and perfect timing too. Got a 02 Maxima displaying signs of bad O2 sensor and/or cat. This will help me greatly. Thanks so much!!

[@stevensuit3395]

You did an absolutely fantastic job of presenting the trouble shooting procedure and other pertinent knowledge that I was seeking. Spot on brother. I feel very confident in using the deeper education I just received from you and what I knew prior to watching your video to now locate and correct my current maintenance issue with my vehicle. Very well done. Visual aides and all. Given that no person ever performs flawlessly. My one needs improvement would be to liven up your presentation. Be more charismatic. Or. Get a co-host (I would volunteer to work with you and have extensive experience in such endeavors, and consider editing options. Some music would not be a bad idea. As would some minor graphics as opposed to your current classroom style visual aides. It really was a great presentation of facts and knowledge. Two thumbs up bud. Thank you for your time and support. Steven.

[@TheMrFlyBoy18]

Bro thank you so much for this! I was able to diagnose after checking everything else with my O2 sensors, testing for power and negative. It was a ground issue all this time so thank you so much and I will make a video to help people out and help them save money like you showed me. Thank you so much God bless you and I will share my knowledge as well. Be safe during these crazy times.

[@stupidguy97]

TIMESTAMPS: 4:38 -- check the heating circuit's electrical resistance 5:18 -- deal with "check engine" light, if applicable. check wiring harness 6:52 -- test the o2 sensor's voltage 8:01 -- good pre-cat o2 sensor reading 8:11 -- good post-cat o2 sensor reading

[@macegarage9603]

Thank you.

[@shanewyer5226]

Great information and I like how you describe how the parts work on the white board. FYI - I replaced my upstream oxygen sensor four months ago on my 2001 Caravan and the check engine light came on again. The same senor failed and I verified this on the two white wires (heater). The oxygen sensor from Autozone had a one year warranty, so it didn't cost me any money other than my time to replace it again (I did have to pay for the new sensor and I rented the removal tool which I was reimbursed). I showed my two teenage sons how to test the wires so they could see the failed oxygen sensor and the working oxygen sensor.

[@myRatchets]

Glad you like the video, thanks for commenting.

[@hawkrock23]

This is an impressive video. There was clear communication of the topic and underlying principals, and certainly not too much information. I watched eight videos before this and nothing even came close to your content. Two of those videos were for college level trade school classes (which did have good information but were too drawn out and didn't touch on many other potential issues).

[@feedbrain6257]

you are the most good mechanical man in the world.

[@williammanning3174]

Why should I listen to someone who uses a multi-meter from Harborfreight?! Just kidding. I have the exact same multi-meter. I like it. It seems to be a quality tool. I have used mine to repair multiple large appliances for my grandmother. Thanks for all the great information, brother.

[@alexwolf8019]

Now thats how you explain stuff in less than 15 mins. Good Vid!

[@tjweber7308]

Best O2 sensor Video I've found so far, very great explanation and simplified. I have to watch it a couple times and take notes so it stays stuck in my brain lol.

[@abrahamnoriega3344]

Awesome tricks to know the mixture condition, I loved that one when you disconnected the vacuum line and numbers started to decrease, that's a good one!!! Thanks for sharing your great knowledge man!!!

[@vegasrich803]

Your instruction is so well organized with perfect visual and very easy to understand explanation. You should become a Professor at the College. I really like all the videos you put out. Thanks a million for sharing your expertise.

[@mr.e8282]

Thank you. I'm going to come to your videos first when i need car help.

[@greedo2660]

Excellent video. Communication skills are off the chart.

[@carlosgallegos6834]

That was a lot of information but after rewinding the video several times i got the hang of it thanks for this video helped alot

[@vasylmagura3280]

I was getting codes P0171 System LEAN (Bank 1) As well as P0131 Low Voltage Sensor 1 Bank 1. After i watched this video it's clear why as the oxygen sensor is bad. Good video.

[@0088Cain0088]

Excellent video!!! Simply and exactly the info that will help you learn

[@norlandphotography]

Very well explained,I was finding it difficult to find out which 02 sensor to replace,after your video,I now know,great video thank you.Subscribed and liked

[@markhanson8366]

Your use of board diagrams is so helpful-thanx!

[@detectingwithus409]

You are awesome. Such a great teacher. Great videos and diagrams. I have an early 04 F150 I'm having problems with. It runs ok when the ambient temp is cool but when the ambient temp gets in the high 80's and above the engine starts cutting out. I have to turn the truck off coast for a few seconds and crank it back up. Then a few more miles have to repeat. Any knowledge you could share would be awesome. Thanks a million for making and sharing your videos.

[@v8berenguer372]

Big hug from Portugal.Big thanks for your Diy videos, very helpfull.Big help.

[@BW-dh7vf]

Nice vid, good details and insights for those of us who don't know this stuff. :)

[@danl4222]

Very informative. This Mechanic himself fully understands the sensor system, and teaches it well. Thank you.

[@crank3646]

Really like how your videos summarizes stuffs out . Very informative !

[@alexandercahoulan6583]

Man that hair is looking good. Almost like Charlie sheen in Wallstreet. But dude you have taught me SO much. Your a very chill guy who just lays it out in an easy way. I feel like we’d enjoy each other’s company lol

[@kenjones2819]

this new found knowledge you gave us is little help whn it comes to taking car to shop they want to throw parts at problem and get paid thanks 4 the vid bro

[@LivnTex]

Great job and very informative on this video. By far the best video I have found on this topic. Thanks again.

[@Minggoreng]

I like your video which has more deep knowledge than Scotty Kilmer's videos.

[@weldingjunkie]

Admin A Scotty knows nothing he’s just out for money

[@clutchbleach2057]

Straight up the dude is too old school. You need a carb rebuilt I'm sure he's the guy. The dude thinks any kind of after Market anything is bad for cars. The guy we're watching is probably one of the best for this kind of thing.

[@roshi98]

@@clutchbleach2057 If I have to spend $100 more for OEM but it lasts 100K instead of 30K like some aftermarket options then it's a better long-term investment, so in that sense Scotty is right to suggest DIYers drop a little more money on OEM. But I do think he's too quick to dismiss aftermarket out of hand rather than researching options that durable and can save his viewers' money.

[@piusigbinomwahia1444]

I am from Nigeria. This is the most explicit video that explains the link between the sensor harness side and the engine harness side in the eventuality that one of the harness side is usually cut off by some careless mechanics. You are simply a great guy. My sensor harness side is missing and I have trying to link the sensor 4 wires to the engine side harness male socket with many other videos. Stumbling on your KZbin video made it a lot lot easier. From your explanations the 12V pin is diagonal to the ground pin. Does that mean my two black heater wires from the sensor side will have to socket the two diagonal positioned pins on the engine harness side? My 12V wire from the engine harness side is white with black stripe while the ground is red with yellow stripe. Expecting your confirmation. Thanks

[@grasscutter1963]

You are so awesome on the details in your videos 👍👍 so glad you explained about the banks as I kept hearing talk of the bank one and bank two for example but your the first to actually explain it like this and now I have a better understanding of banks. Thanks

[@isitreal1459]

Thanks a lot man!! i just checked mine it was driving me carazy and couldn't find why it was wasting a lot of fuel, i'm sure now my o2 sensor is the cause. After checking resistance i saw there was no resistance (olms) on the 2 same colored wires. Thanks alot, i love all your videos!

[@rudysison9010]

You're close to hit that 1,000,000.00..hope you hit more Dude! I saved this information.

[@terranceprice7006]

Great video, explained a lot more than some others I`ve watched, many thanks

[@andrewcbro]

best mechanic vlogger on youtube. eric use 2 b but he became less about the work and more about random shit.

[@undrspellz]

easy there buddy, eric is (also) awesome!

[@georgecolbert3247]

Great video. Simply explained.

[@bigpicturesstudio]

It did confuse the hell out of me man but it was a great video to make, a real education, you are obviously a very clever man with electronics, wish you were my best pal. Thanks for making it, take care, best luck. J

[@nazigrammar9728]

I like that hood shock! It's so fabulous!

[@davemac01able-eu3nn]

Great video! Really helped with understanding O2 sensors. Good info on multimeter & test light uses.

[@Fireneedsair]

I’ve watched it twice and I’m taking notes and it’s still a bit confusing at parts. But I’m also formulating the right questions to ask.

[@enriquecarmona6498]

You are a great teacher. Thank you.

[@dyardsale5475]

Both oxygen sensor videos gave me a plan of how to deal with my problem.

[@du5215]

that really simplified all the numbers I'm seeing. thanks. you have real talent. thanks

[@billguthrie2218]

Thank you. Very helpful and educational.

[@flightofthefatman]

Nicely placed Oxygen sensors - very considerate of the engineers. But I wonder where the oil filter is positioned. Really well explained video. Thank you!

[@Fireneedsair]

Yeah, mine are located in HELL

[@mrterryman]

God's blessed you with good teaching skills! Thanks!

[@jwhitfie]

Awesome video easy to follow and made sense

[@danielrus7117]

Excellent video and explanation!

[@pensive_]

Fantastic thanks. Solved every question I had.

[@jamesanderson478]

Very good video. Very well spoken.

[@tommymurashie]

Very informative. You clearly have a talent. You would make an excellent trade instructor.

[@andresdlv]

Your videos are great. Very informative. I've learned so much. Thanks!

[@richardjimenez7394]

Thank you for your share of the catalyst problems on my 2000 Silverado and my Suzuki Grand Vitra. Your explanation how it works. I have taken to mechanic here in Modesto and I don’t think they know what they are doing and they did not explain not at all . I am doing my research on the operation of the o2 sensors and caterverter .

[@Elwooddudes]

Thanks for the video! Need to test mine soon!

[@ironreign9412]

Excellent vid with a lot of good info. It's like a good movie with a deep plot. I'm going to watch it at least one more time to fully understand it all. There's a lot to soak in and digest. Many thanks.

[@mikececil6672]

Very informative thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@evloevyousuf3329]

Thanks a lot man this kind of info is hard to get on the web and ppl like you make it so easy to learn 👍👍👍

[@dr.yahyaelewa1628]

I hit LIKE before even watching.. I like the way you explain , very informative.. we love you man..thank you Hats lift up🎩

[@darioaquino9399]

Very well mastered subject matter and well explained.excellent overall.i don't have to keep asking my son's help to do the test.

[@plumbs7199]

Thanks mate , great vid and well explained!

[@bl33ditout]

Thank you for posting and the valuable information 👍. New follower 😀

[@s34nvideos]

Something I dont quite understand... If the car is running lean, it will read from the O2 and adjust the ratio once in closed loop, when adjusted, the ratio is normal again and the O2 sensor will continue to oscillate. Why did the working O2 sensor never oscillate here once more fuel is added to the ratio to account for the exhaust manifold vacuum leak?

[@sagem210x]

best video ever, you helped me a lot, i have a golf mk3 1.6 AEK engine and the engine is not running smoothly

[@MrBigsky13]

I hope you have a Bently Repair Manual? I have an MK2 Jetta now for over 10 years and that Manual has given me more tips and tricks than anything. There are links to an online version someone uploaded for the MK3. They are so fun to drive.

[@LesskoBrandon]

very simple and straightforward video. thanks

[@HouseCallAutoRepair]

Excellent breakdown of testing and function.

[@dandiy4958]

Always a good informational journey, thanks!

[@claudemaggard7162]

That was the best tutorial I have watched on this subject

[@smcafee1]

Good stuff, thanks, I showed it to my students in New Zealand

[@Zeroneii3]

for the o2 sensor voltage reading, if your sensor has a signal wire and a ground wire then you have to ground it to get an accurate reading

[@leonardchampion4088]

right on right on! now thats how a video is done 🍻cheers mate🍻from tn

[@fidelggg1747]

Ratchests and wretches saludos desde mexico.. I change my oxygen sensor i was have bad gas milage and watched a few videos a came across to this video and a previous video you done how oxygen sensor work i believe great videos i think ima open my own mechanic shop down over here with your knowledge lol..

[@martymcfly7882]

Awesome explanation

[@RoastedHVAC]

This was a great educational video. Loved it! Thanks

[@ganiyushakiru6653]

Hello Chris, I want to commend you for taking out time to share this video. A lot of details jam packed in there. However, I have a DTC P2238 on my Toyota Camry 2003 I4 cylinder and thought of diagnosing the problem myself. The equivalence ratio reading was approximately 1 while the 02 sensor B1S1 ranges between 3.2 and 3.3, all conforming to specs. What else do you think I should look at? I also read on the internet that an EFI Relay could be responsible. Thank you in advance for your support on this.

[@lawsonstallings1955]

Excellent work.

[@godfreyssemagobwe4284]

Thanks so much Mr RnW

[@pro-humanity9213]

Thank You very much ! You'r a Master Teacher and Mecanic man !

[@TheSupermosiman]

Very informative and useful. I put the subtitles on by accident and they are hilarious, especially introducing 'cocaine' into the inlet manifold :-D

[@marioviewise]

Awesome tutorial dude!

[@richardhumphrys7907]

Great Video I was looking for the OHM Resistance reading. My upstream was 0.5 and 0.7 OHM Downstream for the O2 Sensor

[@camdo3338]

Great video with very clear explanation. Thank you!

[@gabrielchaparro1698]

Sensitive topic - Great explanation & additionally, your additional tips about the tip heater top sensor tube vignettes. Thanks!

[@jpvSoccer]

Hi, another great video from you. Thanks! Quick question. When using the test light to probe the signal wire to the ecm you are applying 12v to an input that typically expects 0-1v. Do you think ecm input is protected to allow 12v when the typical value is 1v or less?

[@robertdewald8781]

I like your video and the explanation, very accurate. thank you...

[@evilroyslade3155]

That was a great video! Well done!

[@richardjones3112]

Great explanation.