people say that you can change o2 sensor yourself, but won't you need the mechanic to reset the codes?

Question

if you change the o2 sensor without resetting the code wouldn't that beat the purpose of changing it?

to rhythm, yes i took it to the mechanic to have them do the diagnostic test and that is what they say nothing wrong with the engine, the sensor, they say, is dead need to replace a new one.

Answer 1

It all depends, some cars will clear the CEL themselves when they get a normal reading from the O2 sensor for a certain amount of time. Some cars can clear by unhooking the car battery for a few minutes, some with a paperclip, and around here auto-zone will clear them for free...


On a side note:
About O2 sensors, are you sure that you really need a new one? I don't mean to talk down to you if you already understand this, but o2 sensors aren't just there to "go bad", they have a purpose... If you have a problem in your vehicle so that too much or to little fuel in exhaust gas is reaching your o2 sensor and the o2 sensor sends a trouble code then your o2 sensor is working! And to replace the o2 sensor would not fix your problem, it would only be a waste of money. Many people do this when they have an exhaust leak, misfire or vacuum leak.

Make sure your O2 sensor is really whats bad before replacing it. It could be the o2 sensor itself... Usually reading out of range, or if it doesn't cycle at all...

but usually not.

***Edit***
Mechanics will rip you off, charge you $70+ for an o2 sensor and another $70+ for labor... and it could be as simple as a small hole or unhooked vaccuum line, or wet distributor....

Answer 2

You can change your O2 sensor yourself.....but not all vehicles require a mechanic to reset the code. Try this disconnect your battery first (with the negative cable) wait 10 seconds reconnect it then get inside your car. Put your key in the ignition and observe the location where you light will illuminate. Turn the key and start the vehicle....does the engine service soon light come on then turn off. Does it come back on after a minute or so? Well what you just have done is cleared the code. But since you haven't replaced the part...the light turned back on. But before you try that check your vehicle manual and find out how to clear the codes according to manufacturer specs.

Answer 3

Actually... the make/model/year of the vehicle makes a difference in clearing the codes. Some vehicles have a set process you can use to clear the code while some require a special device (code reader). Some vehicles will clear the codes after a set time period of no error codes produced.

The 'error code' simply states that the O2 sensor had a problem at a set point in time. The ECU will continue to try and use the O2 sensor and will function properly once it 'sees' the problem has been corrected.

Swap it out. Give it some driving time and see if the light goes out. If not.. take it to a dealer/inspection station and tell them you've repaired the vehicle and want the codes cleared. If they won't do it... take it to a place that will.

I purchased a code reader that works with my laptop for about $250 and it can clear codes. This could be another option if you plan on doing more work yourself.

Good luck!

Answer 4

you should have a special wrench to change the o2 sensor but you can do it and after you have the new one in disconnect the negative cable on the battery for about a minute and this should reset the computer.

Answer 5

You can replace it yourself.
Disconnect the battery when you do this and the PCM may reset itself after it looks at then new O2 sensor.

Or take it to the ol' autozone or parts store and see if they have an OBDII reader and reset it yourself. They loan them for free or will do it for you where ever you got the sensor.

Answer 6

its clear the code if the check engine light was on newer cars is the plug in diagnostoc tool old ones was just jump two terminals then unhook the battery to clear the codes but the tool will do it on newer cars be sure and read directions and refer to owners manual.

Answer 7

Most computers will reset themselves when you disconnect the battery.

Answer 8

yes