How long does the air fuel ratio sensor last?

If you have a car made after 1980, then you have an air-fuel ratio sensor. This is the component of your emissions control that sends information to your engine's computer to help it run efficiently while producing as few emissions as possible. Your car's gasoline engine uses oxygen and fuel in a certain ratio. The ideal ratio depends on how much carbon and hydrogen is present in any given amount of fuel. If the ratio is not ideal, then fuel remains - this is called a "rich" mixture, and this causes pollution due to unburned fuel.

On the other hand, a lean mixture does not burn enough fuel and releases too much oxygen, leading to other types of pollutants called "nitric oxide" pollution. A lean mixture can cause poor engine performance and even damage it. The oxygen sensor is located in the exhaust pipe and relays information to the engine so that if the mixture is too rich or too lean, it can be adjusted. Since the air-fuel ratio sensor is used every time you drive and because it is exposed to pollutants, it can fail. Typically you get three to five years of use for your air-fuel ratio sensor.

Signs that the air fuel ratio sensor needs to be replaced include:

• Poor fuel economy
• Sluggish performance

If you think your oxygen sensor needs to be replaced, or if you're having other emission control problems, you should have your vehicle checked by a qualified mechanic. They can diagnose any problems you may be having with your emission control system and replace the air-fuel ratio sensor if necessary.