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Like most machinery in your vehicle, your oxygen sensor won't last forever. Back in the day, O2 sensors could last only an hour. Today, O2 sensors typically last anywhere between 40-100,000 miles depending on the year of the vehicle. New vehicles’ O2 sensors will last much longer than older models.
Over time, your O2 sensor can become soiled with carbon and soot deposits, or the element simply gets old and wears down and needs to be replaced. O2 sensors can also become soiled from the grease of lubricants which may make their way into the exhaust stream. Any oil/coolant that seeps into the combustion chambers can also soil the O2 sensor. If the oxygen sensor is too worn out, there will be a lag response time or it will just stop working altogether.
With bad habits come bad oxygen sensors. There are ways to make sure you get the most out of your O2 sensor, primarily making sure it is set up correctly from the start. Review all wiring and mounting to ensure nothing is amiss. Avoid silicones coming into contact with your sensor, as it can negatively impact performance. Some examples of silicones that can have this affect include sealant vapor. Similarly, make sure to protect your O2 sensor from harmful gases and chemicals, such as hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and methane.
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