Oxygen Sensor 98 ES300 V6
 

I have a question, I saw nice threat on how to replace the oxygen sensors on some of the Lexus vehicles and was not difficult. But there was not the whole discussion on troubleshooting "which" oxygen sensor needs to be replace. I had some impression its not easy to tell unless you run realtime readings with a special computer on the sensor. Is it something you can pin down with just a inexpensive OBD reader. I mean if it gives you bank #, etc.

Can you then some how transfer this over to a particular sensor location, and where would I find that information out if I am able to get the necessary information from a OBD scan tool.

I would like to save my friend some money as apparently $400+ is a common price quoted out according to the forums, and the part is around $100 from what I am reading, so were okay with $100. lol

All she has been able to advise me is her check engine light is on due to an oxygen sensor.

Yes, the cheapo OBD2 can tell you which sensor is out..

Bank 1, Sensor 1 is the one behind the engine. ( more difficult, you have to access under the car )

Bank 2, Sensor 1 is the one in front. ( Easy )

Bank 1, Sensor 2 is the downstream behind the cat ( this requires, exhaust drop and passenger side seat removal - carpet to be pealed back a bit to access the connector )

Some shops will read for free, but she will need to ask.

Okay that is very helpful, I will pull and report back early next week.

the sensor's are easy enough to replace, it does require getting the front end up in the air to get to the ones at the back. Usually it's best to replace them in pairs, because the failure is often caused by age so you'll only be back there in 1-2-3 months time.

Heads up, there is a socket for these sensors, which can it alot easier to remove and install them. it's called a oxygen sensor socket.

Always buy OEM, if you can afford it, if not, aftermarket is often just as good,

Store rents those sockets too :-)

Get the Denso if you can help it.

Clarks Discount Autoparts have them really cheap. No affiliation just happy customer. Talk to Carl tell him Jim with the 911 sent you :-)

Keep in mind if the original sensor is seized in there you'll need a long breaker/extension bar to wrench it loose, or possibly a torch to heat things up.

Make sure you use the right sensor socket, 7/8" is common but won't work on Japanese cars with a 22mm metric.

Once it cracks loose, there's a chance you might strip out the threads and you'll have to retap.