Summary
The oxygen sensors play a crucial role in determining how much oxygen is present in the gas. You might be tempted to just replace the complete device when your car’s catalytic converter wears out or the oxygen sensor isn’t functioning properly. This isn’t always the most beneficial choice, though. Without having to replace the catalytic converter entirely, some alternatives can help you save money.
If the oxygen sensor is malfunctioning or the catalytic converter has reached the end of its useful life, the vehicle may display an engine light. There are several ways to get around the oxygen sensor, such as utilizing an O2 sensor extender or adaptor or swapping the original oxygen sensor out with a fake one.
Now let’s go over how to bypass O2 sensor step-by-step and why you’ll need to bypass the sensor!
Contents
How to Bypass O2 Sensor
Before you consider bypassing your O2 sensor, you should make sure it’s legal to do so in the state you are in. Also, make sure that you’re capable of doing it.
Get The Car Ready
Let the car cool down before working on it, which may take a few hours for the exhaust to completely cool. Disconnect the negative battery cable by loosening the nut and sliding the clamp away from the terminal.
Jack Up The Car
Jack up the vehicle using the front jack point and place the jack stands under the frame towards the front of the vehicle. Lower the vehicle gently onto the stands.
Remove The O2 Sensor
Locate the O2 sensor in the exhaust system, which looks like a plug and may be found in the catalytic converter or before and after it. Disconnect the wiring by squeezing the tab and pulling it away from the housing. Use a special tool to turn it counterclockwise and remove it.
Insert a Dummy (fake) Oxygen Sensor
To install the new dummy sensor, also known as an O2 sensor simulator, turn it clockwise as you would with a new O2 sensor. After installation, connect the wiring and lower the vehicle to the ground. Once you start the car, check if the Check Engine Light has turned off. You may need to drive the car for a short distance to turn off the light. It’s important to note that installing a dummy O2 sensor may be illegal, depending on where you live.
Why Would You Need to Bypass an O2 Sensor?
You might want to bypass your O2 sensor for a few reasons. Perhaps you want to improve your fuel efficiency, or perhaps you simply want a little more power. The best way to get around an O2 sensor if you want to increase your car’s performance is with a wide-band oxygen sensor.
Bypassing the oxygen sensor is not advised if you’re trying to pass an emissions test or keep the check engine light off. If you’re unsure whether to bypass your oxygen sensor or not, an illuminated check engine light may also be a sign that it has. If you’re wondering whether or not to bypass your car’s oxygen sensor, we advise speaking with a qualified repair or automotive expert.
That is all for this article, where I explain how to bypass an O2 sensor. If you found it helpful, kindly share it with others. Thanks for reading, see you around!