O2 sensor and brakes

[geojim]

Due to the heat and pending rain showers, I had to break down and take my Metro into the shop today to have two problems fixed:

- O2 sensor was replaced. It started to generate code "13" check engine errors. Engine was running rich and leaving lots of carbon deposits in the EGR value and the passages leading to it. I tried to get the O2 sensor out by myself, but couldn't get it to budge. Being able to stand under the car with a long breaker bar made the difference. I'll keep an eye on gas mileage and the carbon to see if it makes a difference.

- Brakes. Had a squealing right front wheel and a dragging left wheel. They put on brake pads on the front but had a real hard time with one caliper bolt that was frozen in place. They had to heat it up to remove it. Also one of the pistons did not move very freely. The rear shoes were fine except one side was too tight and had to be manually adjusted.

Car seems to run better now

[mik13usa]

Jim, what neck of the woods are you in? Just wondering about the 'frozen' caliper bolt. I guess I am spoiled being in SO - Cal and not having seized bolts issues. Did they rebuild the caliper? Please keep us updated, just want to know!~

[geojim]

West Virginia. I meant "frozen" in the sense of being totally rusted in place. They tapped around it to try and break the rust bond, used a little penetrating oil, and then brought out the big torch to heat it up. Mechanic said it was either going to come out, or the head was going to snap off. Luckily it finally gave it up and came out. The caliper, after a little cleanup, was fine and put back on.

[mik13usa]

I hope they didn't overcharge you! But it sounds like you are good to go for awhile. Thanks for the update, and happy motoring!