Have an issue with the sensor (Bank 1, sensor 2 I believe) on the exhaust just past the CAT. It is rusted on there and my mechanic told me he couldn't get it free. Are there options that don't include replacing the entire exhaust and said components? Has anyone else had this issue? Thanks in advance.

 

Yes. The exhaust is in sections. You can try salvage yards. Has he tried heating it up? Your mechanic should be able to drill the old one out and ream out the threads .... that is if the drilling does not go bad. If it does then a threaded bushing can be installed and welded. Make sure the sensor sticks into the exhaust the same depth as it did before repairs. On installation make sure the supplied grease is applied to the threads of the sensor.

Search will help too.

 

That's what I thought. When I look at the actual sensor, it doesn't look that corroded. I think my mechanic needs to grow a few stones. Thanks.

 

In over 300,000 miles of RX ownership I have needed to replace a few O2 sensors. I have never had one that either I or my mechanic could not get out.

 

Curious, define "a few"?

Honestly, I was looking to get the downstream sensor (next to the cat) replaced proactively. Car is 21 yrs old w/90k and I'd rather get it done in advance rather than be at the mercy of someone out of town to replace such a thing. It is the original sensor.

 

I’m guessing six in 22 years of owning 3 different RX.

The only component I replace proactively is the cylinder 3 coil pack.

 

If it's the one after the cat... don't worry about it. The car will run 100% fine even if it dies.

 

With old vehicles the probability of things [when they are worked on] going bad are higher. I would leave it alone it it fails and in case of fail, the vehicle is still drivable.


Salim

 

Agreed, though if the CEL is on, it won't pass smog here in AZ.