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Why Do we Need a Lambda Sensor?
Modern engine management system need a way to monitor the amount of fuel that is injected into the engine, so by putting a lambda sensor in the exhaust system to monitor the oxygen content that is present in the exhaust gasses.
How does it work?
Simply: A Lambda or Oxygen sensor measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust system. It sends signals to the on board computer which adjusts the air/fuel ratio to the correct mixture.
Technically: The sensors work by sensing the amount of o2 in the exhaust gases and converting this to a readable voltage for the engine control unit (ECU) to convert into more or less fuel that is injected into the engine. The correct amount is known as lambda 1 or 14.75:1 fuel ratio, this is also called stoichiometric. The O2 sensor try's to keep the O2 in the exhaust gases between 0.97 to 1.03 lambda.
How can I tell if it needs replacing? Lambda sensor failure may be indicated by increased fuel consumption, an increase in emissions, CAT failure or possibly the illumination of a 'check engine' light.Lambda sensors should be replaced according to the vehicle manufacturer's guidelines. In general, sensors should be checked every 25,000 to 30,000 miles and renewed every 60,000 to 80,000 miles.
Will it be suitable for my car?
Most lambda / oxygen sensors that is used on cars today have four wires to them but there is sensors with one two or three wires as well. This listing is offering the most widely used sensor.. the four wire variety. To check suitability, check the number of wires in your vehicle.
Where will I find the Lambda sensor? Mounted in the exhaust system manifold or front pipe, as close to the engine as possible (it resembles a small spark plug). Year 2000 on vehicles may have two sensors, one before and one after the catalytic converter. 'V' configuration engines may also have one sensor per bank.
Which type do I need? To help identify which sensor you should count the wires. Your sensor may have between one and seven wires - three and four wire sensors are the most common. Check the colour of the wires. There are two basic types of Lambda sensor - Zirconia and Titania. The colour of the wires helps to identify which type you have.
Other info...
The sensor will not start to work until it heats up to about 300 degrees. This four wire sensor has its own heater built in that speeds up its operation and allows it to be placed further away form the exhaust manifold. Once up to temperature and sensing exhaust gasses it generates its own voltage as the oxygen content of the exhaust gases change. Zirconia sensors are fitted to 90% of vehicles in the UK fitted with a catalytic converter - the sensor will usually have black, grey, purple or white wires (or a combination of these).
These are pretty expensive to buy from your local auto dealer, but ZA is offering them at the best price on Ebay at just £19.99!!
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