1997 Cougar Oxygen sensor trouble

I wonder if anyone here has any words of wisdom on this subject. I have been driving a 97 Cougar for a few years now and could not be happier. Until recently that is. A couple of weeks ago the "Service Engine Soon" light came on, an indicator (the car manual advises) that the Emission control system needs to get looked at. The car ran fine except for some very faint rattling at higher speeds (40 MPH +), and some hesitation on the gas pedal.
I took it to a shop and was told that the oxygen sensors were burned out. After replacing those, the "Service Engine Soon" light still was on. I was then told that the ECM was damaged when the sensor burned out. I suspect that the mechanic shop meant the “Electronic Control Assembly” and not the ECM. In any case, I would appreciate any input as to my current predicament. Has anyone had this happen to them before?

Would be interested to hear anyone’s thoughts on this.

Hugo Ruiz

hugoruiz001@yahoo.com

Try resetting the computer.
1. Remove Fuse #15 - engine compartment/under hood.
2. Attempt to start the engine (it won't start with the fuse out)
3. Put fuse back in.
Computer is now reset.

Tried it. That seemed to do the trick