So you’ve just bought a new car and it’s time to get it registered and insured. After the obligatory safety check, your dealer will want to know if there are any issues with the car that you should be aware of. One of the first things they’ll ask is if there is an unplugged O2 sensor.
What is an O2 Sensor and why do they need to be unplugged?
An O2 sensor is a device that monitors the amount of oxygen in the air. When the car is started, the O2 sensor needs to be plugged into the car’s computer to get readings. If the sensor isn’t plugged in, the car won’t start.
How can the car start if the O2 Sensor isn’t plugged in?
If the O2 Sensor isn’t plugged in, the car will still start. The car computer will look for another source of oxygen to run the engine. If there isn’t an O2 Sensor plugged into the car, the car computer will use its fuel pump to inject gasoline into the engine.
What are the risks of not plugging in an O2 Sensor?
Do you know the risks of not plugging in an oxygen sensor? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, not plugging in an oxygen sensor can lead to a car not starting, which can be dangerous.
If your car doesn’t start, the chances are high that the problem is with the oxygen sensor. By not plugging in the sensor, you’re opening yourself up to possible engine damage and even a rollover.
plugs into the electrical system of your car to measure air quality. If it detects low levels of oxygen, it will send a signal to your car’s computer to turn on the fuel injectors. If you forget to plug in an O2 sensor, your car’s computer won’t be able to detect this low level of oxygen and won’t activate the injectors.
There are two basic types of oxygen sensors: wired and wireless. Wired sensors usually require a direct connection between the sensor and your car’s battery; wireless sensors usually use radio waves to communicate with your car’s computer.
If you have any questions about whether or not you need to plug in an O2 sensor, be sure to contact your car’s manufacturer or a mechanic.
Conclusion
On a cold winter morning, many of us reach for our keys to start our cars. However, before turning the key in the ignition, we double check to see if there is an unplugged oxygen sensor on the fuel rail. Our goal is to prevent our car from starting with a low level of oxygen in the system, which could potentially result in a fire. In some cases, this preventive measure can save your life. If you ever have any doubt as to whether or not your car has an unplugged sensor, consult your owner’s manual or contact your nearest Ford dealership.