o2 sensor

Hey everyone,

I have an 03 matrix, and I need to replace the after cat o2 sensor. I can not get the old sensor to loosen up. I have tried penetrating lubricant, heating it, used every tool I can think of to try to get leverage, and it just won't move.

Anybody got any ideas that I haven't tried? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

A local muffler shop!

you can get a socket from autozone that has the split down the side that wont screw up the wire. you can also rent it and when you take it back you get your money back for using it but i'd just buy it it's probably around $10.00 you'll need it later thats why i say just buy it.

Consider a recycle H02 sensor for down stream from a salvage yard!

Sometimes it is easier to remove when the whole exhaust is up to normal temperature...get the special slotted socket and a BIG breaker bar.

You can also take it one step further and spray some freeze rust breaker (just make sure it isn't flammable) onto the O2 sensor or even a high pressure air stream to quickly cool it, cause it to contract, and hopefully loosen it from the exhaust pipe thread.

I wouldn't buy a used O2 sensor...you don't know the condition of the car it came out of, so it could be on it's way out as well. Besides, it's a bitch to get out once, do you want to hack at it to replace it again so soon?

I assume after this long you have it done but heres my 2 cents. Unless you are keeping the old sensor as a trophie or something then cut it short and use a regular socket. They are hard to cut but can be done. With it being this hard to get out don't forget to chase the threads.

I wouldn't use a recycled H02 sensor for the upstream pos, that signal is a feed back signal for the Air/fuel mix.

As far as using a used HO2 sensor down stream, it just tells the PCU/ECU, if the catalytic converter is doing it's job!

Don't forget to use Anti-seize compound.

I have no problem using recycled parts like EGR valves, O2 sensors, bulbs, fuse's, relays, engines, transmissions, and metal body parts.

Caution - Don't waste your time with old plastic, or rubber.