Yes, a bad oxygen (O2) sensor can ruin your vehicle’s catalytic converter. The oxygen sensor measures oxygen levels in the exhaust. If it malfunctions, the main computer chip – the engine control module – may increase the level of fuel in the combustion chamber. This excess fuel will overload the catalytic converter, and you may smell rotten eggs as a result. Dave’s Auto Repair lists the other signs of a bad oxygen sensor below.
Black Vehicle Exhaust
If you see black exhaust smoke flowing out of your tailpipe, this is a sign that the engine is burning excess fuel. As we just mentioned, the engine control module may put too much fuel in the combustion chamber because the oxygen sensor is malfunctioning and sending incorrect data. You really shouldn’t see vehicle exhaust at all. If you do, there’s a problem in the engine.
Check Engine Warning
One of the most common reasons why a check engine light turns on is a malfunctioning O2 sensor. The check engine light will stay illuminated on your dashboard until you replace the bad oxygen sensor. Thankfully, a diagnostic check will produce an error code that will lead us directly to the oxygen sensor, so it will be quick and easy to resolve the problem.
High Emissions Levels
Another thing that happens with a malfunctioning oxygen sensor that produces too much fuel in the combustion chamber is high hydrocarbon emissions in your vehicle’s exhaust. If you live in a state where you are required to get an emissions test, your vehicle will not pass the test if it is releasing too many hydrocarbons.
Loss of Fuel Efficiency
Many people also notice that their fuel economy tanks – no pun intended – when the oxygen sensor is going bad. This, again, is because the engine is burning away too much fuel. In some cases, the faulty O2 sensor will also cause the engine control module to put too much air into the combustion chamber. This can also affect your vehicle’s fuel efficiency because the engine will burn the fuel more quickly as it struggles to run.
Performance Trouble
An imbalance in the combustion chamber can also cause engine performance problems. For example, if the combustion chamber is filled with air, your engine and acceleration will stutter and struggle to produce speed. If the combustion chamber is filled with fuel, your engine will surge.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, call Dave’s Auto Repair in Goshen, IN, or of vehicle diagnostic check. We can determine whether your oxygen sensor is malfunctioning and replace it if it is.
