O2 sensor question...

[czechT698]

Could someone validate this statement? Is it true?

"The lifespan of a common O2 sensor is about 100 000km. When above, it does not directly have to fail, but it can perform worser than it should - this leads to poor consumption and reductions in performance."

My dad had to replace both O2 sensors on his Touareg which have been failing and since that, the car drives like new again. I was wondering if it would make sense to replace them preventively on the Z since currently I am a few kilometres away from 150 000km which is according to some sources too much for a lambda. What does everyone think?

 

[czechT698]

Interesting read I found :
http://www.autohausaz.com/html/emissions-oxygen_sensors.html

 

[Shipkiller]

I had the same issue.
Read this:

http://www.z4-forum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=4488

 

[czechT698]

Excellent read Shipkiller, thanks! My car often feels underpowered and the consumption is rather terrible... I think I will do some pre emptive maitenance regarding the sensors. I already have my vanos seals and I am booked to a good indy in may so I will also bring him the new lamdas for installation. Did you notice any increase in performance after the new sensors have been installed?


PS: regarding my problem last time, yes, it was probably water since nothing is wrong with the car

 

[Shipkiller]

No increase in performance. Just an increase in MPG...

Glad to see it was something simple. Always go with simple first...

 

[wulliet]

What are O2 sensors i have no idea about engines and basiclly don't really want to know anything about them, just want to drive my Z.

 

[czechT698]

wulliet, They are sensors which are plugged into the exhaust headers and monitor the fumes in order to supply the ECU with info on how to mix the fuel:air ratio... They eventually degrade overtime.