Do You Have Damaged Oxygen Sensors In Your Subaru Car?

Oxygen sensors are crucial components of your Subaru’s emissions and engine management systems. These sensors monitor the level of oxygen in the exhaust gases, helping to regulate the fuel mixture for optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. If your oxygen sensors are damaged, they can negatively affect your Subaru's performance, fuel economy, and emissions. Empire Subaru is here to help you identify the signs of a damaged oxygen sensor and take the necessary steps to resolve the issue.

1. Symptoms of a Damaged Oxygen Sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor can manifest in various ways. Recognizing these symptoms early can help you address the issue before it leads to further damage or expensive repairs.

• Check Engine Light: The most obvious indicator of a damaged oxygen sensor is the illumination of the "Check Engine" light. When the vehicle's onboard diagnostics system detects a malfunction in the oxygen sensor, it triggers the check engine light to alert the driver.
• Poor Fuel Efficiency: If your Subaru’s fuel efficiency suddenly drops without any obvious reason, it could be due to a malfunctioning oxygen sensor. A damaged sensor may cause the engine to run with too much or too little fuel, reducing fuel economy.
• Rough Idling or Engine Hesitation: A damaged oxygen sensor can cause rough idling, hesitation when accelerating, or even stalling. This is because the sensor is no longer providing accurate readings to the engine control unit (ECU), which affects engine performance.
• Increased Emissions: A faulty oxygen sensor can lead to an increase in harmful emissions, as the sensor plays a key role in regulating the fuel mixture. If you notice an unpleasant smell from the exhaust or fail an emissions test, it may be a sign that the oxygen sensor needs to be replaced.

2. What Causes Oxygen Sensors to Fail?

Several factors can contribute to the failure of your Subaru's oxygen sensors:

• Age and Wear: Like all vehicle parts, oxygen sensors wear out over time. Generally, they last around 60,000 to 100,000 miles, but their lifespan can vary depending on driving conditions and maintenance.
• Contaminated Fuel: Contaminated fuel or the use of low-quality fuel can damage the oxygen sensors. Fuel additives, leaded gasoline, or improper fuel grades can shorten the life of your sensors.
• Exhaust Leaks: An exhaust leak can cause unfiltered air to enter the exhaust system, which can interfere with the oxygen sensor’s readings, leading to inaccurate data and sensor failure.
• Engine Problems: Issues such as misfires, burning oil, or problems with the engine's air-fuel ratio can damage the oxygen sensors. Regular maintenance of your Subaru engine can prevent these issues.

3. What to Do if You Have a Damaged Oxygen Sensor

If you suspect that your Subaru’s oxygen sensor is damaged, here’s what you should do:

• Check for Error Codes: If the check engine light is on, use an OBD-II scanner to read the error codes. This can help confirm if the oxygen sensor is the source of the problem.
• Get a Professional Diagnosis: While some DIYers may attempt to replace the oxygen sensor, it’s recommended to have a professional mechanic check the sensor and confirm if it needs replacement. A mechanic can also inspect the exhaust system and ensure there are no leaks.
• Visit a Subaru Service Center: Replacing an oxygen sensor requires precision, as the sensor must be installed correctly to ensure proper function. Empire Subaru has certified technicians who can replace faulty oxygen sensors and restore your vehicle’s performance and fuel efficiency.

A damaged oxygen sensor can affect your Subaru’s performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions. If you notice any of the common symptoms, such as poor fuel economy, rough idling, or the check engine light coming on, it's important to address the issue as soon as possible. For professional service and repair, visit Empire Subaru to have your oxygen sensor inspected and replaced by experienced technicians.