Hi,
I have a 96 I30t(117K miles) and its check engine light comes on today. I was wondering if the I30t's ECU is the same as the one on a 96 Max.
I pull the code and it gave 0503. Do you guys have any idea if replacing O2 sensor is a DIY job?
Thanks

 

Yes, the codes are the same from the maxima and I30.

Replacing o2 sensors is very simple. Get them here at www.oxygensensors.com

 

So do I need to get 2 sensors or just 1 to replace the one that is bad.
on that website, it said two is required, how come?

 

all you need is the front RT o2 sensor. It's the one one the Y-pipe. If you want to replace both go ahead, but there is no need to.

 

Or, you can just reset the ECU and make sure you run only premium gas. I did that, and my CEL never came back on.

 

I just saw you are in Cary. I'm in Raleigh. Anyhow... Does only running premuim lengthen the life of the o2 sensors at all? (I'm trying to justify keeping doing it beyond better performance and no valve knock to the wife...)

 

First, this board is full of good information about why it's important to run premium. Check the FAQ's.

When I first bought my I-30t, I ran regular gas for the first few years. The CEL never came on. One year the car would not pass inspection because the computer was giving a problem signal. (I didn't know then how to check the CEL.) I took it to the stealership (on Capital Blvd.) and they said I had a bad knock sensor. $400 to repair (most paid by an aftermarket warranty). The car then passed inspection. I kept running regular gas and the CEL came on (O2 sensor code). It was then I found this board and all of it's good information. After resetting the CEL and running only premium gas, the CEL never came back on.

Sadly, my I-30t is now dead, thanks to a driver that turned in front of me.

 

Sorry about the dumb driver and the loss of your t. Glad you're ok. I've had good experience with the Captiol Blvd Stealership but like you, since finding this board, I scrutinize anything I need done now.

How many miles were on yours when the knock sensor went out and do you think you could have replaced it yourself with a day to work on it and basic tools?