o2 sensor help

I went to advance auto parts today to get my OBD2 computer checked out because my CHECK ENGINE light was on. This is exactly what was on the print out.

Advance auto parts

vehicle scanned
1997 Cavalier
T=2.4L
Manual Trans

Set DTCs (codes)

History DTC PO141
O2 Sensor Heater
Circuit Malfunction
(Bank 1 Sensor 2)
MIL REQUESTED
Since IGN NOT RUN
Since Clear P/F

the guy said it was located by my catalytic converter? Can anyone help me out with this as to what it is and what to do? My gas mileage has also decreased a lot since this problem occured. THank you

Buy a new sensor, install it by removing the old one, put anti-sieze on the threads first and plug it in. This should take care of the O2 sensor problem and the check engine light. It will also help the gas mileage problem. The sensor is obviously a heated one and that probably led to the malfunction. Autozone has a good price on O2 sensors and shouldn't take more than an open end wrench or O2 sensor socket to replace. You may have to take it back to have the computer code cleared. Good Luck!

or you can disconnect the battery for a certian amount of time and it will clear the computer. I think it depends on the car itself and the actual time for the Cav has slipped my mind.

I was told that the Bocsh O2 sensors are junk and to use the GM one. Is this true are bull?

yes, I used to work for Advance and they carry bosch also, and they were crap. buy a delco and you'll be good to go. one other note, the disconnect battery trick to clear codes doesn't work on most 96/newer obdII eqipped cars. Take it back and have the codes cleared with a scan tool.

or you can disconnect the battery for a certian amount of time and it will clear the computer. I think it depends on the car itself and the actual time for the Cav has slipped my mind.

That aint gonna work on a '97. OBDII car. Gotta clear it with the scanner.

yea, i got it fixed...... my mechanic advised me not to go wtih bosch from advance. they were only 70 bucks, but he said they are crap. He told me to use a delco but it was like 236 for just the parts. big difference in price, hopefully it was worth it. also, i had my mechanic clear the codes too becuase the battery thing didnt work.