How difficult and/or expensive is it to replace an O2 sensor in a 2002 Honda Accord SE?

Question

The check engine light in my Accord came on...according to the mechanic, I need an O2 sensor and he claims the part costs $380. With labor, it comes to over $400. Yet I just did a quick search for O2 sensors for a 2002 Accord SE and am coming up with prices between $60-100. What gives? Am I wrong in thinking I might be able to buy one of these myself and install it? I don't know much about cars at all, but have successfully swapped out a couple of parts before on a Dodge Caravan when I was given proper instructions. Any help here is most appreciated. Thanks!

Answer 1

if you know some one that has all the tools then you can do it for what ever about 200

Answer 2

It isn't difficult to change if you can see it.
Which sensor did he tell you that you need?
If it is the front sensor, they are very expensive. They are only an oxygen sensor in the generic sense.
They are more accurately referred to as a Air/Fuel ratio sensor. And if you get one for less than about $250.00, expect to have problems with it and the fuel management control.
If it is the rear, the price you quoted is pretty much in line.
BE WARNED— Merely replacing the sensor may not repair the problem. You could have fuel management problems, and the sensor is doing what it is supposed to, and the computer turned the light on to tell you about it. Make certain proper diagnostics are performed.

Happy Motoring

Answer 3

325 dollars for a diagnostic fee, the o2 sensor, and the labor is very reasonable. How is 325 almost 500 I am wondering. Labor rate is based on $100 / hour which is the norm where I live. I dont know of any shop that charges 45 / hour, how would they survive.

Answer 4

After market parts will be cheaper , but are a good alternative to the highter price manufacturer replacement part.

You can certainly do it yourself , all you will need is a good adjustable wrench , and the knowledge of which O2 sensor to replace. (some cars have up to 4 of them) yours should only have an upstream and a downstream sensor. Make sure your exhaust is cold before you do it or you will burn your self.

Answer 5

You are right.Do not go back to that rip off.Turn him in to the bureau of automotive repairs.The 02 sensor is located on the exhaust after the engine and before the catylitic converter.They probably have two 02 sensors. Change the one I mentioned in the area discription.

Answer 6

not very hard go to any part store and ask but like mine has 2 but it a camaro most cars have 1 but there usually under 30 buck and ask if the rent a o2 socket to put on a ratchet it like installing a spark plug usally found on the exshaust pipe, on a grade degree from 1 - 5 1 being easy i would give it a 1 like i said it like changing a spark plug

Answer 7

My O2 went out in my subaru and it was costly. It came to about 500.00 for the sensor and the labor. Putting parts in a car is not a easy job as you have to know about the car itself. get it done.

Answer 8

The o2 censor went out in my toyota. The part cost me 88 dollars and change after taxes. If the garage was to do it they were going to charge me around 400 for the work alone. Its ridiculous. You best bet is to buy the part and put it in yourself. It is expensive but saves oyu alot in the long run. Trust me.

Answer 9

Definitely under $100.00 and replacing it will take 5 minutes.

One thing to remember, once you install the new one you have to reset the codes. To do that, you have to disconnect the battery for a minute then reconnect it otherwise your computer will not recognize the new one.(it's the same thing when you connect a new peripheral to your computer...you have to reboot before the system recognizes it.)