o2 sensor problems

hey all,
my check enging light has been on for quite some time. I took it to a mechanic and he ran code p1131 which indicates a bad o2 sensor. I then went to autozone and they ran p1131 also, PLUS code p1443 which indicates "EVAP Vacuum System, Purge or VMV Fault".
I have heard people talk about o2 sensors and some suggest that its not really the o2 sensor itself that is the problem, but rather there is a problem with certain hoses(maybe a leak or something).
Has anyone ever had trouble with their o2 sensors and what did you do to fix them. Any help with this situation is greatly appreciated. Thanks

Jared

if you had a lean code (p0171 p0174)yes a hose could cause the problem - but you have a switching code indicating a bad o2

don't know your year or milage but o2 sensors last abt 60-80,000 miles. My fuel milage & performance was bad so I replaced all 3 o2's on my 95 3.0. They're abt $50 each. Made a big difference in milage & performance. Also just went through po1443 code, it ended up being the "purge control sensor". It's in the hose running to/from the carbon canister, it's a small cylinder with hose in & out & an electrical connection. Cost abt 65$ from ford dealer but CEL never came back on afterwards. Make sure all hoses are good 1st too, no leaks. Good Luck!