Ok...let me see if I can summarize. My "Service Engine Soon" light came on about 3 weeks ago. I'm thinking "no biggie" b/c I know something as minor as a loose gas cap can cause that to happen. But I take the car to the dealership anyway. They tell me I need to replace an O2 sensor (at a cost of near $400...YEA RIGHT!) So, needless to say, I chose to drive with the light on since that particular part isn't a critical piece for proper engine operation (lol). But, now its time for me to get my emissions tested (Georgia law..and it SUCKS). And I need to have this done to renew my tag (Did I mention GA law sucks!!) So, now I have a problem. If I have to, I will break down and get the repair done....but if there is a way around doing that (i.e. some way to deactivate the service light) then I'm all for it!! I know the car will pass emmissions if I can only get the dash light to go off (that's an automatic fail). If I have to get the repairs done then I'm looking at nearly $400 for replacement + cost of tag (which is NOT cheap here) :-( So....can anyone lend a helping hand?

 

Which o2 sensor is it? You can replace any of the 3 o2 sensors on the exhaust in less than a half hour and for less than $100. Do not pay the dealership $400 to do such a simple job.

 

not sure which one....how can I find out (w/o taking the car to a shop w/ a diagnostic machine)?

 

(follow up question): is there a DIY on replacing o2 sensors on the Forum? I did a search but came up empty....

 

I just realized you have a 2K I30. My reply was made thinking you had a 96-99.

 

So does that mean I'm SOL?!?!

 

No, I would be asking 5th gen max owners how easy it is to replace the o2 sensors. It may be just as easy as doing it on my car, but I don't know for sure so I cannot give advice on this issue.

 

OK...I'm getting NO LOVE in the 5th Gen forum....I guess a guy posting a question about an I30 in there doesn't get any R.E.S.P.E.C.T. (haters lol). So, are there any 2000 owners out there who can offer some assistance?? These are my questions:

1 - Is there a way to identify which sensor is bad w/o coughing up $90 for a diagnostic?
2 - Is there a way to trick the check engine light just so that I can pass emissions?
3 - If "no" to both questions above....then can anyone help with a "do it yourself" on replacing o2 sensors?

Thanks!

 

1 - that is easy: switch the ecu into diagnostic test mode
2 - NO! if the o2 sensor gives a code, probably your engine will run lean or reach, or it will indicate a catalist mulfanction.
3 - not sure if there is anything about it in faqs, but i possibly could post some pix/notes.

 

NEW DEVELOPMENT IN THE o2 SENSOR SAGA (lol)!!!!

I called the shop that actually performed the diagnostic on my car (over a year ago) and they had on record the actual sensor which needed replacement (damn I love those infiniti service techs .....even though they're expensive as S**T!!) It seems that i need a "BANK 1 o2 sensor" replacement. So now at least I know its a sensor BEFORE the catalytic converter. NOW....the guy @ the dealership says that the car has only 2 sensors.....while everyone else I talk to says that the car has 4 sensors (2 front and 2 rear). Anyone know which is true? I am asking because I can order the parts FOR MUCH LESS online than what the dealership would charge...I am just trying to make sure that I order the right thing. Thanks Again!

 

ok....how do I switch the ecu into test mode?? (sorry if that's an idiot question)

if you could post pix and a step by step how to that would be GREATLY appreciated.