I just replaced a main oxygen sensor for my 91 LS400 (150K miles) at local Lexus dealer and I was shocked at the price of the part: CAD300 (USD220). I expect that the remaining three sensors could fail any time and I'm interested to know a less expensive alternative ? Would aftermarket oxygen sensor be a good choice (Bosch, NTK, or Walker)? Thanks.
tvd51

 

aftermarket is the way to go.. go with walkers from oxygensensor.com

great prices prompt delivery... easy to install

 

pesian - Did you mean.... http://oxygensensors.com

What are symptoms of a bad oxygen sensor anyway? Did you go with the OEM or universal sensor?

 

Nothing noticeable in terms of performance until the engine light came on. I replaced with the OEM sensor. Hope that it'll improve the fuel efficiency, which is quite low currently (16 mpg city). I checked the price in town on Bosch & NTK (the OE, not universal type) and they're not significantly cheaper than the Lexus sensors. Walker sensors cost US $115, which is about 60% including S&H, but I don't know about the quality.
tvd51

 

stick with universal.. requires the old sensor and about 1/2 hour wire splicing

save about 50-60 bucks

 

Do you need that special Oxygen Sensor Socket or can they be replaced with a normal wrench?

 

The work was done at the local dealer and I don't know what tool they used, but by looking at the sensor, I think it can be removed with a wrench. The manual suggests that it should be done while the exhaust is still warm.
tvd51

 

just go to autozone or kragen and get a loaner o2 sensor tool... its basically a wrench that makes it more convienient to open