GM Oxygen Sensor

The fuel and air mixture is a must for your car to keep it going but it must be supplied at a right and balance amount. Responsible for checking if there is sufficient oxygen and air in the said mixture is the car’s oxygen sensor. It is part of the emission control system which transports information to the computer of the car which manages the smooth flow of operations and transfer of the needed substances from one system to the other.

 

The main purpose of the oxygen sensor is to facilitate the efficiency of the engine as well as minimize the exhaust that must be emitted into the atmosphere. The combustion that happens on the car’s power train requires a specific ratio of air and gasoline which is usually 14.7:1 although it may depend on the type of fuel used as well as the amount of carbon and hydrogen making up the fuel.

Deficiency in air or if there is an amount less than the required ratio, the result would be left over fuel which can lead to pollution. The excess or unburned fuel is called rich mixture, a component comprising the harmful pollution emitted by vehicles and motorcycles. Excess air on the other hand means excess oxygen called lean mixture. It is one of the factors for the formation of nitrogen oxide pollutants which is also a harmful gas that can cause negative effects on our environment and health.

 

The oxygen sensor is placed in the exhaust pipe for easier detection of rich and lean moisture. Through a chemical reaction, voltage is produced which serve as the means to warn the auto computer for adjustment in the amount of fuel to be supplied.

 

Regular repair and check up must be done for your oxygen sensor to ensure that it will efficiently and effectively carry out its expected duty. Common symptoms of defect or damage are decreased fuel economy, failure of the catalytic converter and too much exhaust emission.