oxygen sensor replacement

[reh02]

About two weeks ago my "check engine soon" light went on in my 99.5 pathfinder. I waited approximately a week and took it to a dealer who charged me aprroximately $80 to diagnose the problem. They said my oxygen sensor shorted and needed to be replaced. The cost was around $440. Is this a reasonable price? Also, during the two weeks I haven't noticed any changes in my car, is this a must fix soon? Thanks in advance for all the help.

[88pathoffroad]

Originally Posted by reh02

About two weeks ago my "check engine soon" light went on in my 99.5 pathfinder. I waited approximately a week and took it to a dealer who charged me aprroximately $80 to diagnose the problem. They said my oxygen sensor shorted and needed to be replaced. The cost was around $440. Is this a reasonable price? Also, during the two weeks I haven't noticed any changes in my car, is this a must fix soon? Thanks in advance for all the help.

Good lord man, don't pay them $440 to replace a screw-in sensor that costs about $100 from other places. Try http://www.oxygensensors.com for a replacement. If they don't list one, or it costs the same, shop around for one. Auto parts stores can get you the exact same unit for less than the dealership wants for one, I can guarantee it. It is a simple task to change one out, it screws directly into the exhaust piping and the wiring should just plug in exactly like the old one did. Personally, I don't own an R50 Pathy, but if you look around, you'll find other people that have done this for their vehicle and will be more than happy to offer advice on this subject.

Changing out your O2 sensor will get you better gas mileage, in all probability, and keep the engine running properly. If the old one is malfunctioning to the point that the check engine light comes on, it probably does need it. Other than that, it shouldn't cause any driveability problems or other issues.

[yearmax]

I have a 96' pathy and have since replaced all 4 of my sensors for abut a little over $300. They are very simple to replace. The ones on the exhaust manifold itself you will need the o2 sensor socket which was about $14....


Dont have the dealer rip you off .. Do it your self

[ricks14035]

I have a 2001 Pathfinder, and have had the same oxygen sensor problem, I think anyway. That at least is what the folks at the emissions station told me. I got to the 2 sensors on the down tube of the exhaust. The top 2 however are a real bear to get to. It doesnt look like you can get to them from the underside so I spent 3 hours today and back and forth to store for more tools trying to get the drivers side one off. Passenger side sensor I still havent tried it looks even harder to get to. Anyway tried various socket wrenches and can barely just get the socket to seat on the sensor, but not enough room to get any torque on it. Can anybody help?