Oxygen Sensor Question??

Question

I have a 1997 Chevy Tahoe with about 160,000 miles.There is nothing wrong with my truck( yet) , but I was wondering if should replace the 02 sensors as preventive mantinance, specially the front ones or upstream.I know they are the originals.

I know that when a 02 sensor goes bad it will give a trouble code, but thas not my case.

My concern is when they get old , they became "lazy".

Any info on this??

Answer 1

Even if they're not throwing a code they'll probably be inaccurate at that age. When they read too low you'll run lean, so it would be a good idea to replace them. You can get generics at Autozone.

Answer 2

Oxygen sensors can be easily tested on the vehicle - don't spend money for something that you may not need.

Vehicles cost enough to drive without replacing parts because they're old or even recommended.

The timing belt interval on a lot of vehicles is the exception - if it breaks, your walking home at best, or destroying your engine at worse.

Not true with 02 sensors, the vehicle will run without them - not at its best for sure, but it won't break down and leave you stranded - so replace them when they go bad, not when they simply get old.

Answer 3

if you can afford it replace it, can you do it yourself?

Answer 4

if i were you, i would go ahead and buy them, but not put them in until you need them.

Answer 5

auto parts stores sugest every 100,000 on most models

Answer 6

Yes they get lazy. I usually recommend changing them at 60,000 mile intervals.