Your car’s oxygen sensor works with the exhaust system, the engine, and the engine control module to make sure that the right amount of air is circulating through the entire system. If that sensor fails, you’re eventually going to have some problems in your engine. Choisser Automotive Services wants you to know what signs can clue you in to a failing oxygen sensor.
The Exhaust Is Getting Bad
Your car’s exhaust is never all that fantastic, honestly, but that’s its job. If you’re noticing that the exhaust is getting worse, that is to say it’s smellier and it’s getting darker and there’s more of it, that’s a sign that there’s a problem somewhere. The biggest culprit might be the oxygen sensor, because it means that the engine isn’t getting the information it needs to adjust anything.
You’re Hearing Unusual Noises
Part of what the oxygen sensor does is determine how much air the engine needs in order to keep the car running. A bad oxygen sensor means that the engine doesn’t have data to calculate those formulas. As the driver, what that means is you’ll hear misfiring or engine knocking that your car’s ECM may not be able to adjust around.
Gas Mileage Is Getting Worse
Without the right oxygen mix, your car’s engine is overworking itself. That can mean that it’s burning more fuel to get the same results, like allowing you to drive a set distance. If it’s taking more fuel to do the same work, that means your fuel mileage is getting worse and you’ll see that as having to get gas more often than you usually do.
The Check Engine Light Is On
Any time you see the check engine light, you need to pay close attention. That’s your sign that there’s something big going on with the car’s engine. That problem might be an immediate one, or it could be one that has been brewing for a bit. With the oxygen sensor, your engine isn’t likely to expire immediately when the light comes on, but you should have the engine checked so that you can determine what’s going on. Driving around for an extended period is just going to make the problem worse.
Choisser Automotive Services in Davidsonville, MD is happy to help you to diagnose any and all engine issues you’re experiencing, including problems with your oxygen sensor. Call us today to set up an appointment to have your car’s engine inspected.