My 1996 es300 was throwing a "Check Engine" light on the console.

I took it to Advance Auto and borrowed their code reader. It said:
I'm trying to find it now. I see one up behind the grill (it appears).

I Googled and found a source saying it's between radiator and engine. I found another that says it's between engine and firewall. I found a post here that says bank 1 sensor 1 is next to the firewall but for 1995 models. Another guy with a 98 seemed to indicate it was next to the firewall.

Now, before I go banging up my knuckles, I 'd like to be sure I'm replacing the right one. Anyone know for sure where this bank 1 sensor 1 o2 sensor is for a 96 es 300?

 

I'm getting close. Here's a great diagram, but for the next model year (1997).

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/3859895-post10.html

Now if I can just find one for 96...... '96 was the end of a model run, wasn't it. Didn't the newer thicker model come out in 1997?

 

Bank 1 is the one with the first cylinder (the one closest to the belts). So in your case, Bank 1 is near the firewall.

 

gotcha, thanks, man!

Got any comments on using Bosch or Denso, or any other brand?

 

Only use Denso First Time Fit. That's what the car came with.