Is Your Car Breathing Properly? Ensure O2 Sensors Are Checked Every 30,000 km: Bosch

The O2 sensor is a vital component of the vehicle that allows oxygen levels readings in the car exhaust system, resulting in a smoother and efficient driving experience. Also known as the Lambda sensor, modern cars manufactured in the last 20 to 25 years get to enjoy its benefits. 

Similar to humans, vehicles need to breathe correctly to drive well. This is where the O2 sensors come in place: it monitors the airflow and reads the oxygen content before sending a signal back to the Engine Control Unit (ECU), which essentially is the car’s brain. 

As a rule of thumb, Bosch Automotive Aftermarket Malaysia (Bosch AA) highly advises drivers to check their O2 sensors for every 30,000 kilometres. This routine check ensures that the sensors are in working condition - as a malfunctioning sensor can lead to reduced car performance, wasted fuel and an increase in greenhouse gas emissions contributions. 

How can we identify if our O2 Sensors are faulty? Some signs include a less responsive vehicle or powerless acceleration, difficulty keeping constant speeds, and an unusual increase in petrol consumption due to incomplete or inefficient burning of fuel. 

Alternatively, the O2 sensor can also be alerted through the ‘engine’ icon on the dashboard. While the symbol does not always correspond to sensor issues, it does indicate what is wrong with the engine. 

Bosch AA suggests that drivers have mechanics perform a maintenance check if you’ve noticed these signs as they may need replacing. If ignored, the sensors may accelerate deterioration to the catalytic converter, which can be costly to replace or repair. 

Two types of O2 sensors are offered by Bosch AA: The Bosch original series offer options catering to vehicle specific. At the same time, the Bosch Universal line carries a universal option that fits most vehicles.