Check Engine, need advice!

[jharber15]

I have a 1998 ford explorer sport. I just had the check engine light come on, and got it in the shop the next day. The mechanic told me that none of the oxygen sensors are giving any readings and he has no idea what is wrong with the car. He said he thinks that it may be a "processor" problem, but said take it to ford. Said he ran several tests, and can't put his finger on anything.

Does anyone have any experience with this type of problem?

[srercrcr]

It's my understanding that if that light goes on, it stores the code(s). Are you up on your maintenance? Cleaned the IAC and MAF within the last 50K?

[jharber15]

I just got the car at 45k, so I'm not sure on past maintenance. I am taking it for another look today. Hopefully, they'll put a finger on. I have done every possible thing for the car since I got it. I have loved it so far!

[jharber15]

well, i got a second opinion for the problem. they said it is definitely the o2 sensor. They charged me 80 bucks to tell me that. Man, did i feel ripped off.

They then told me that they'll replace the sensor for 240 dollars including labor. Now that has to be a ripoff! how much should this cost? btw, this is pro care

[mabulok]

A quick search on the net reveals one for $41.55 to $49.76. Looks like you should be able to replace it in about 5 minutes (plug and play). That is the exact reason I stay away from any repair shops if I can help it.

[jharber15]

Yeah, I looked around and saw that this part does not cost nearly as much as they were trying to charge me. i will never go back to taht place again.

However, the light was on for 3 days or so. The light came off, and the car seems to be running fine. I have been keeping an eye on the gas, and sniffing for fuel smells at every chance that I get. If all things seem normal, should I replace the sensor now?

[luis1]

replacing the sensor now will save you a lot of money later. my vehicle has two sensors but i did not no that at the time and by not changing the other sensor i had to replace the hol engine because of gunk build up on the valves.o2 sensors control part of the fuel ratio in the emission system.

[madlad]

Read my recent post regarding the problem.

Good Luck.

[xhardhittin59x]

hey guys, im new hereso im not exactly sure if anyone will get this but anyway, i recently had to change the O2 censors on my explorer because the check engine light came on. just for future reference, if you can find an AutoZone by you, they will use the computer to tell you why the check engine light is on and what the code means for FREE, that's right for FREE, i highly recommend using them, you don't even have to buy the part from them but they will tell you for FREE, just thought it would be usefull for future reference,

[marlonwms]

I have a 1997 Ford Explor the check engine light comes on and off all the flueds check out ok the gas cap is ok what could be wroung

[Shade3]

you need to see what codes the computer kicks out. Does the light stay on? or is it intermittent. If the light is on, you should have an active code or codes, whereas if the light is off, the codes should be stored in memory.

You can run it by an Autozone, they will check the codes for you.

[Nsparky]

While we are on the subject, I had a PO133(upstream O2 sensor slow to respond bank 1) diagnossed at advance auto so I replaced the sensor and hade the code cleared. After about 20 miles the light came back on. Had the new code read and it was the same thing so I had them clear it again. Then after about 75 miles it came back to haunt me. I have not had it read again, but I am 99% positive it will be the same code. Any suggestions for me, please.