My MIL keeps tripin with this code, and it happens every other week. When I first got the code, it was from when I switched back to the Cattman Y-Pipe (had it on, took it off for emissions, then put it back on) and some of the bolts came loose (rear where ypipe attaches to manifold). I tightened the bolts (all over the y-pipe) and reset, the code went away. This happened a few more times due to the bolts coming loose. Now, with the bolts being tight (not coming loose) the code is appearing. I'm thinking that the O2 sensor is "tired" (though it was replaced ~3 yrs ago in a recall). Don't have a multimeter to test the sensor. Is this the standard interval (every 1-2 wks) for the MIL to come on after being reset to indicate a faulty sensor? Or should it come on right away after the reset?

 

02 Sensors seem to just wear out. I'd hope they would last longer then 3 years. I'd recommend testing it then replacing it as needed. Btw... I believe a 'bad' o2 sensor could result in poor gas milage.

 

There is no "standard interval" for the MIL to go on. The Engine Control Module is continuously checking the signals it gets from the various sensors. Whenever it detects a signal which is out of spec, the ECM does these things simultaneously:

1) It turns on the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (a/k/a Check Engine Light, Service Engine Soon light).

2) It stores one or more Diagnostic Trouble Codes for subsequent retrieval. The DTCs explain why the ECM turned on the MIL.

3) It ignores the incorrect signal and substitutes a default value which is somewhere in the middle of the normal signal range. The default signal is good enough to run the engine but power may be diminished and fuel usage increased.

 

Thanks. I haven't felt any loss in power and no decrease in gas mileage. I just had my clutch and flywheel replaced so I've been taking it easy on the acceleration (shifting before or near 3000 rpms) so I've been getting pretty decent gas mileage. I'm just gonna have to get a hold of a multimeter to check out the voltage going though it. Possibly something to do with this "recall" going around???

 

Contact your dealer. He can do a computer lookup to determine if your car is eligible for a "campaign" sensor replacement. It doesn't hurt to ask!