Is your Audi using more fuel than it used to, or is it stalling and shaking while running? If yes, then you might be facing an issue with the oxygen sensor. The oxygen, or O2 sensor is an important device that helps your car’s computer determine the ratio of air and fuel in your engine. If the mixture is rich, it means that there is excess fuel, and a lean mixture means that there is an excess of air. The O2 sensor is usually mounted in the exhaust system and is responsible for constantly monitoring the level of oxygen in the exhaust gases.
This sensor relays information to the engine control unit, or ECU, which regulates the fuel injection to keep everything in check. Without the O2 sensor, your Audi will not be able to maintain that balance of fuel and air in the engine. Almost all of today’s Audi models come with two oxygen sensors, one located before the catalytic converter (the upstream sensor) and the other placed after the converter (the downstream sensor). Both are important, but the upstream oxygen sensor has a greater role to play in the fuel mixture regulation. Let’s see some signs of failure and how to replace a failing sensor.
Symptoms That May Indicate Your Audi Requires Oxygen Sensor Replacement
- Inefficient Fuel Consumption: If your vehicle is consuming a lot of gas and you find yourself frequently refueling your Audi, then it is high time you checked the O2 sensor. A bad sensor delivers wrong information to the ECU and this leads to the use of more fuel by the engine.
- Warning Light: This is a sign that should not be overlooked as it could indicate that the car’s computer system has detected a problem with the oxygen sensor. This problem can be confirmed through a diagnostic scan.
- Rough Engine Idle or Hesitation: When the sensor fails, the air-fuel ratio becomes incorrect. This can make your engine run rough, hesitate when you accelerate, or even misfire.
- Failed Emissions Test: If the sensor is bad, there will be incomplete combustion, meaning more toxic gases will be released. This can lead to the car not passing the emission test and emitting dangerous gases that pollute the environment.
How To Replace A Bad O2 Sensor
The first thing is to confirm if the sensor is actually the problem, because some of the signs of a failing O2 sensor are similar to other car problems. When the sensor is determined to be defective, the repair process starts with locating the sensor, but before that, make sure you allow the exhaust system to cool down. It is always dangerous to work on a hot exhaust.
After cooling, the faulty sensor is then disconnected from its electrical connection point. It is unscrewed from the exhaust pipe or manifold through a special sensor socket. A new sensor is installed and tightened according to the standard torque. It is then bolted and reconnected to the wiring harness. After replacement, the computer is reset, and a test driving is performed to ensure that the engine functions as expected.
Can You Drive With A Bad Oxygen Sensor?
Yes you can, but it is not wise to do so. Running your engine rich or lean in the long term can damage your catalytic converter—an even more costly component to replace. Addressing the sensor problem the moment you notice it is cost-effective and good for the health of your Audi in the long run.
Autohaus Is The Right Place To Take Your Audi
If you think your Audi needs a new 
oxygen sensor or you would like to have a professional look after your car, we are here to assist you. At Autohaus Sales and Service, we have been providing quality Audi services to the Royal Oak residents since 1970. We deal with the service and repair of brands such as Audi, Porsche, Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes, and Mini, and our experts know how to handle every model.
If you are experiencing symptoms that point toward a faulty oxygen sensor, we can assist with accurate identification and efficient replacement to make your Audi perform optimally. We proudly serve drivers from nearby areas such as Birmingham, Troy, Bloomfield Hills, Huntington Woods, and Pleasant Ridge, and are always here to ensure that your Audi drives safely and as smoothly as possible. Contact us today or set up an appointment and see why Audi owners in Royal Oak bring their cars to us.