So I took my car to AutoZone today and had them hook their computer thing up to my car to see what is wrong with it (the Check Engine & ETS Off lights are on) and the lady said the problem is my Oxygen Sensor. Well, lately since those lights came on, my AC has been throwing out warm air, and whenever I get out my hands smell like Freon or something, not sure..but it's coming from the vents. Could these problems be related? Or are they different?
the car is a 1996 Pontiac Grand Am SE
also, I just bought this car two weeks ago from a dealer (I'm paying payments) would he be responsible for paying and fixing these problems or would I? About how much should it cost? How long? Thank you
2007-09-06 15:06:20 · 9 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
the problem your having with the air conditioner,has nothing to do with the 0-2 sensor,but the air conditioner problem needs to be looked at,you might can call the dealer and talk with them,the might help you repair this car,since your paying payments on it,sometimes they will be real nice about this and help you with fixing one,it don't hurt to ask them,most of the time they are sold as is,even though they are sold as is,sometimes they,ll help with problems like this,good luck with it.
2007-09-06 15:26:05 · answer #1 · answered by dodge man 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
These appear to be different problems. The check eng light can be cause by many things. From simple to complex. The O2 sensor is an easy item to replace, so if you feel lucky, have that changed out. But, don't be surprised it's not it. As another answer states, can be something else.
The smell from the AC can be from a leak in the heater core, the thing that creates warm air for the heater. It's always in the AC/Heater air path. Coolant has kinda a sweet smell. If the AC is warm, then the compressor can have a leak also. This is yet another issue.
Check your warranty. If you purchased AS IS, then you may not have any recourse. Best thing is to get back to the dealer ASAP and explain all of these issues.
BTW, depending on year of car and your state, some of the smog emmision control components may still be covered under manufacturing warranty.
2007-09-06 15:29:03 · answer #2 · answered by david80 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do you have a 30 or 60 day warranty?The dmv "vehicle safety" office deals w/dealer complaints of this type.I'd tell the dealer about your problem and if they won't fix it for free complain to dmv they have dealer complaint forms and at least one person that deals with this type of shady,unscrupulous type of crap.Don't pay a friggin nickle to have anything done till you check your warranty and basic "used car"right's out in your state.If your oxy sensor is bad it is possible that you'd have a smell from the exhaust like it's running not quite clean.The smell you describe sounds like coolant or antifreeze like I told you the last time I responded to ya.This may mean your "heater core"is clogged up and probably needs to be replaced.Very difficult on some of these cars.Don't pay to have that fixed either till you find out whats covered by your warranty.Does this car have over 100,000 miles?If it does you may have no implied warranty.Try to find a good mechanic bye this I mean talk to older people,truckers,bikers,anyone that looks like they may be a motorhead and have them suggest someplace reputable.I like small,independently owned garages.They may be off the main drag wher you live but well worth the search.Try and stay away from "chain stores"in my opinion they are okay for a battery or tires but not much more than that.
2007-09-06 15:24:50 · answer #3 · answered by jwilson 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Auto Zone personel are not trained mechanics....you need special training to read a scanner properly....sometimes you get a code for one thing and the problem is elsewhere. If the Mass air flow sensor is bad it will make the 02 sensor throw a signal.....Go to a Master Mechanic get a real diagnostic test done right....oh freon has no smell
2007-09-06 15:15:12 · answer #4 · answered by FREE4ALL8 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Separate problems for the reasons given in another answer.
Be aware that if there is an oxygen sensor problem and the check engine light is on, the vehicle will not pass inspection.
2007-09-06 15:14:53 · answer #5 · answered by StephenWeinstein 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, typically dealers will give a 30 day warranty for all used car purchases. So you may check out your purchase agreement and any state laws applicable to used cars.
Your Oxygen senson has nothing to due with your AC system. Oxygen senson is part of your emission system.
2007-09-06 15:09:53 · answer #6 · answered by Rick R , Super Duper Samurai 侍 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you bought a grand am get used to problems, they are known for a lot of problems, I would take it back to the dealer and make him fix all the problems that you know of on the car if they gave you a 30 day warranty.
2007-09-06 15:19:01 · answer #7 · answered by mister ss 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
oxygen errors on obd readers can sometimes come from vacuum leaks and or other sources I'd get the ac checked then have the light reset and see if it comes back on.. if so through in a new ox sensor.
hope that helps
2007-09-06 15:14:13 · answer #8 · answered by McGiver 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
freon is oderless ...you are smelling antifreeze from a leaking heater core...not related to check engine light...
2007-09-06 15:33:46 · answer #9 · answered by grasshoppah 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋