Among other things, oxygen is released in your vehicle’s exhaust. The oxygen (O2) sensor tracks how much. It sends the numbers to the engine control module. If the O2 sensor is malfunctioning, the numbers may be off, and you’ll end up with one or more of the following problems listed below. Don’t worry. Vielhaber’s Garage can help.
Black Exhaust Smoke Flowing Out of the Tailpipe
Let’s assume for the moment that the faulty O2 sensor has convinced the engine control module that the combustion chamber needs more fuel. Consequently, there is excess fuel in your combustion chamber. If there isn’t enough to flood the engine and kill it completely, the engine will burn away whatever extra is in there, and you will see black exhaust.
Check Engine Dashboard Warning Light
Usually, when the oxygen sensor malfunctions, it sends an error code to the engine control module. Once the module receives this code, it will turn on the check engine light because it cannot fix the problem itself. The check engine light will shine until you replace the faulty oxygen sensor.
Constant Engine Performance Issues
You may also end up with constant engine performance issues. When there is too much fuel in the combustion chamber, your engine will pick up speed in spurts. It picks up speed when the engine burns away the excess fuel. If the oxygen sensor has sent incorrect numbers in the engine control module thinks the combustion chamber needs extra air, you will notice acceleration lag and a sputtering engine at high speeds.
High Emissions Levels in the Exhaust
Anytime your engine is burning fuel, it releases hydrocarbons into the exhaust. If the engine is burning away excess fuel, excess hydrocarbons will be found in the exhaust and, consequently, your vehicle will fail an emissions test due to high levels of hydrocarbons.
Rotten Egg Odors in the Engine and Exhaust
The excess fuel can also clog the catalytic converter. This is an exhaust system part that is responsible for converting carbon monoxide into a safer gas before it is released through the exhaust. Once it is clogged, you will smell sulfur in your engine and in your vehicle’s exhaust. This smells like rotten eggs.
Significant Reduction in Your Fuel Economy
The imbalance between the air and fuel in the combustion chamber will also reduce your vehicle’s fuel economy. In fact, until you replace the malfunctioning O2 sensor, you may find yourself heading to the service station frequently.
As we said above, Vielhaber’s Garage in Findlay, OH, can help. Call us today if you believe your oxygen sensor is going bad.
