o2 detector?

[gilbert1479]

Got a 94 Dodge Shadow...engine light came on...shop said I need a new o2 detector for $189...i know nothing about cars. Does it really need an o2 detector/sensor? Is that price right?

[mustangmike351c]

what code do you have? turn the key from off to on three times on the third time leave it on count the number of times the check engine light flashes, count until it pauses and start over _ _ _ - _ _ _ _ would be 34

[KManiac]

You should read the fault codes on your computer using the ignition key and the check engine light.

Starting with the key in the "Off" position, turn the key to "On" once, then turn it off, then turn it to "On" a second time, then turn it off, then turn it to "On" for a third time and keep it there. Watch the check engine light and count the number of flashes. If there are no codes on the computer, your light will flash five times, then there will be a short pause, and then it will flash five times again. These two sets of five flashes indicate the end of the computer read out.

When you do this, count the number of flashes between each pause. The sum of the number of flashes between each pause represents a digit. Each error code is a two digit number. For example, the error code for a faulty O2 sensor is 21. If this is the only code on your computer and you run this test, you will see the light flash twice, pause, flash one, pause, flash five times, pause, flash five times, then stop. This equates to the digits of 2, 1, 5, 5. Each pair of numbers is an error code, 21 meaning O2 sensor error and 55 meaning "end of test".

Run the test, count the number of flashes between each pause, write down the sum of flashes between each pause, in the order delivered and let us know what you find.

I suggest you call around to various auto parts stores to determine the market value for the part. The O2 sensor is bolted into your exhaust manifold in the space between the back of the engine and the firewall. With the hood open on your car, you will find the wire connection for the O2 sensor bolted to the passenger side rear corner of the valve cover/head. Check this connection to make sure it is secure before trying to replace the sensor.