my 98 gle is throwing just 1 code, 0413...i know its an o2 sensor code but can someone please clarify which one it is (ive searched and found different responses on which is which)...im pretty sure its the o2 sensor on the firewall side of motor(but need confirmation) because im gonna be getting them in the coming days..also are the front 2 sensors exactly the same (except for the length of the wire? should i just replace both cuz i dont want the other dying soon after i replace just the one sending the code? as far as installing it, can u just get a pair of plyers to change it or do i need to buy a socket?

also i am buying 2 cv axels is there any advice you guys can give me on installing the axels?(like which side to do 1st? If that matters?)and do the axels slide in with with relative ease? or am i gonna have to tap them with a hammer to get them to seat properly?(ive only done 1 axel in my time and it was on a 94 civic)ive read i should get oem axel seals...and do the seals just pop in pretty easy? the car has been very well maintained and wanna keep that going cuz im hoping to get a few more years outa this ride since it just turned to 108k...i respect the guys here on the org because you obviously have in depth knowledge about these cars.....every reply will be incredibly appreciated ..........thanks alot before hand!!!!!

 

0413 = P0153 - left bank of engine (also called bank 2) which is the radiator side. It is the front sensor, the upstream sensor, or sensor 1 (pick the name you like best but remember them all because the stores use them all and change daily. This sensor is in the exhaust manifold right at the flange where the exhaust pipe bolts on.

Both sides use the same sensor, just the wire length is different. You don't necessarily have to use an O2 sensor socket. I changed mine using an open end wrench (7/8 inch) but it depends on your car and if anti-seize compound was used. If you think you need the socket, you can rent one at most auto parts stores. As far as replacing the other sensor, it's your call. I believe that if it ain't broke, don't fix it. The sensors can last the life of the car and maybe it won't. I don't think there is any way to tell.

The axles are like the O2 sensors. Some are easy, some aren't. It doesn't matter which side you change first. The driver's side may cause you more problems than the right side because of the locking clip on the end of the axle in the differential, both in removing and installing. But that is a maybe, no guarantees. My one car went in and out no problem and my other car fought me going in. I had a little problem installing the passenger axle with the center support bearing not wanting to fit in the housing that holds it, but I was able to tap it in part way and then use the mounting bolts to pull it all the way in. Word of caution - if the car is manual trans, you have to drain the trans or have a pan underneath to catch the oil when you pull an axle. If you have an automatic, keep the car level (side-to-side) and hardly any oil will come out.

The oil seals should be replaced, but they are a pita. At least they were for me. The passenger side was the worst. Also, the seals are different for the left and right sides. The left side axle is thicker, requiring a bigger opening in the seal. If you mix up the seals, the the passenger side axle will leak big time.

 

MY mechanic told me to just change both if its pre cat. got both for less than $60. carparts.com