Oxygen Sensor Question
 

I think I've got a poisoned/dying O2 sensor -- car runs rich at idle, trim values are wacky, and voltage response seems sluggish (on one bank only).

Here's my question: Other than cable length, are there any material differences between the signals and functioning of Bosch-style 5-wire (wideband) O2 sensors?

My understanding is no -- they all report O2 levels on the same reference voltage basis, but I want to confirm.

I'm asking as I've got a brand new 02 sensor in my parts bin that I could swap in -- but it's for a different car and is a different part number. Other than a different colored cable insulation (blue vs black) and the length being about an inch different, the two sensors otherwise appear similar.

Thanks!

I say plug it in and give it a shot! As long as the plugs are the same with the same number of pins I can't see how you can go wrong.

That was my guess given that Bosch sells "universal" replacements based on the number of wires.

Didn't know whether there's some difference in reaction time or voltage or something that might mess wuth the computer.

Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk

There are two different kinds of O2 sensors: Wideband and narrowband ones. Do not mix those two types, regardless of amount of wires. Check first if both are of the same type.

Yes -- agreed on wideband vs narrow -- they have different voltage signatures. In this case I know that my parts bin sensor is also a wideband.

Years ago when I installed O2 sensors in my 914-6 race car I found a website that covered all O2 sensors and what their response to signal changes where and also what their connectors were like. Don't have it any longer I am afraid. In that case I used Bosch sensors and they worked great.

With my 2.4L Chevy HHR the O2 sensor behind the cat started throwing codes and my code reader said a failing cat was the cause. The sate of CA says the cat has to be CARB approved either dealer supplied or a few after market and the dealer has to put it on! Cost is approx. $1300 or so and I asked my friend at a repair shop and he said the cat assembly I.E. cat, sensors, pipe and fittings are all made up in L.A. pretty much by the same place. Just stick different labels on them, sooooooo I tried to by one ($250) from Rock Auto but they said no. I had my daughter in Phoenix get it for me then mail it over and it had no label? Works just like the stock one, sensors and all!