Oxygen Sensor

AutoZone stocks dependable oxygen sensors so you can drive comfortably knowing that your sensor meets or exceeds OE specifications. We carry exact-fit sensors with OE connectors for easy installation as well as universal sensors with solder-free connectors.

What is an O2 Sensor?

The oxygen sensor is responsible for checking the air-fuel ratio and exhaust emissions. The Engine Control Unit relies on the oxygen sensor's readings to regulate the amount of air and fuel sent to the engine.

What Are the Types of Oxygen Sensors?

Typically, the market's oxygen sensors can be grouped into three categories: zirconia, titania, and wideband oxygen sensors.
- Zirconia: Zirconia oxygen sensors are quite popular. They can further be split into two categories: unheated and heated. Unheated oxygen sensors rely on heat from exhaust gases to send signals to the Engine Computer Unit. The disadvantage of these sensors is that it could take more than a minute to reach the optimum temperature for operation. The heating delay consequently leads to a delay in the signal. The ECU might get confused and release the wrong amount of fuel. On the other hand, heated oxygen sensors have a heater circuit. When starting the car, the circuit automatically heats the sensor. The probability of erroneous signals is low, making it a more efficient option.
- Titania: Unlike zirconia sensors, titania oxygen sensors are made of ceramic material. The sensors also send signals to the ECU differently.
- Wideband: Wideband oxygen sensors are also commonly known as air-fuel ratio sensors. They are more common in newer cars. These sensors are incredibly efficient since they create a higher level of voltage than their zirconia counterparts.

You don’t have to worry about the type too much, as our website will let you know which part is for your vehicle when you enter the year, make, model, and engine up above.

How Do Oxygen Sensors Work?

AutoZone’s aftermarket oxygen sensors can keep your engine running efficiently because they are engineered to work as well or better than the OE part. The engine computer is responsible for calculating how much fuel the engine needs based on the amount of oxygen in the system, and it relies on a good O2 sensor to function properly. The sensor is mounted in the exhaust manifold to monitor the amount of oxygen in the exhaust. Faulty oxygen sensors cannot send the correct air-fuel ratio data to the engine control module, leading to inaccurate guesses about the amount of fuel your engine needs. This is why when the sensor fails, vehicles can start consuming far more fuel than is necessary.

Signs of a Bad O2 Sensor?

Symptoms include poor gas mileage, rough engine idle, starting trouble, and even failure of the catalytic converter. Often, the check engine light will come on to provide OBD II trouble codes to check with a code reader. Garage replacement service for a bad oxygen sensor can be pricey, but changing your own sensor is generally an easy DIY job that can make your car run smoothly again.

What to Consider When Buying an Oxygen Sensor

An excellent place to start is knowing your options. You can either get a replacement from the original manufacturer or purchase aftermarket oxygen sensors. You might also consider other factors, such as cost. How much you spend on your new oxygen sensor depends on the make and model of your car. Typically, a replacement from the original manufacturer might cost anywhere from $20 to $100.

No matter what you drive, AutoZone makes finding the right parts for your vehicle easy. If you're looking for a Honda Accord oxygen sensor, just enter your Accord's year, make, model, and engine up above, and we'll find the parts you need. Our products boast premium construction from best-in-class materials, and we stock aftermarket components from the industry's best brands, so you can bet on top-notch fabrication.

If you've been dealing with the symptoms of a bad oxygen sensor, a new sensor can make your car's emission control and fuel consumption right again. Buy online for free next day delivery or same day in-store pickup.