Oxygen Sensor

[luvmypt]

I have a 2001 PT with a check engine light on steady. The wife took it to a garage and they told her it was an oxygen sensor and wanted 175.00 to fix. Sounds high to me. How hard can it be to replace an Oxyger Sensor? I am a little confused if the PT has 1 or 2 O2 sensors. One in front of Cat and one behind. Is this correct and which might be the problem one. 50.00 seems to be a common price for a replacement sensor. The car has 115,000 miles on it. Also is there a way to clear the check engine light after replacing the sensor.Thanks for any and all help.

[Hooligan]

You are correct, there is 2 like you said. Try removing the negative cable for about 10 minutes, that may reset it. You might try that, B4 you replace the 02 sensor.

[CREWZIN]

Yes, there's one by the CAT but the other one is right behind the engine (see photo). We need the code to tell you which one (upstream or downstream) to replace. Each on isn't very difficult to replace so it does seem a high price.

[luvmypt]

Thanks guys for the input. Is there a way to get the code through an ignition key combination. Seems like I have read something along those lines.

[CREWZIN]

You sure have ....maybe posted a couple dozen times....plus 1.

In the space of 5 seconds, turn the key from Off to On (not actually stating the engine). Do that 3 times and at the 3rd try stop with the key pointed towards the windshield.

In the center dial there should be a code come up, example: P0070 . If there are no codes stored in the computer (the mechanic might have cleared your code) is should say "done".

[luvmypt]

Thanks Crewzin. I was able to get the codes. There were 2, the first one is P1684 which in the codes post says "Driver 5 Line 4" what the heck, and the second one is P0171 "Fuel Trim System Lean Bank 1". Does any of this make since to you.

[Mean Green]

Have you priced the sensor? I replaced one on my daughter's Kia and it was a Bosch sensor and went for $100 for the plug and play one. The cheaper one was around $70 that you had to splice the wires. Remember, the dealer is always going to be more expensive, too. Try an independent shop if you can't do it.

[CREWZIN]

Steve,

P1684 is nothing to worry about, forget it.

P0171 is pretty definitely one of the 02 sensors. Here's what I found in search....

P0171 - 1/1 Fuel System Lean - A lean air/fuel mixture has been indicated by an abnormally rich correction factor.

There are a number of possible causes including:

Restricted Fuel Supply Line
Fuel Pump Inlet Strainer Plugged
Fuel Pump Module
O2 Sensor
O2 Signal Circuit
O2 Return Circuit
O2 Sensor Heater Operation
Throttle Position Sensor Sweep
MAP Sensor Operation
ECT Sensor Operation
Engine Mechanical Problem
Fuel Contamination/Exhaust Leak

The majority of tests performed to rule out each component require the use of a DRB III scan tool and or special equipment which most owners do not have, therefore your ability to DIY will be limited.

[luvmypt]

Thanks again Crewzin. I guess I am at the mercy of an automotive shop. To many possibilities to be guessing. However if it was the O2 sensor, It seems like it would be the one before the cat. May give it a try.

[Bessie718]

Engine light on 2004 PT Cruiser has been going on and off for months. Got the codes P0137 as well as P0138. On my last road trip, the car stalled and died when I came to a stop after exiting freeway. I plan on taking another road trip. Is it safe to drive car with these codes or should I have car fixed before getting on the road again?