Of all the components that help ensure an engine is operating correctly, lambda sensors are one of the most important. Want to find out why?
Keep reading the article to find out how much lambda sensors cost, symptoms that indicate that you may have a problem with the component, how they work, and much more.
What is a lambda sensor ?
Lambda sensors are used to measure the amount of oxygen in an exhaust system.
Once combustion has taken place in the engine block, the lambda sensor gauges the amount of oxygen in the system, calculating whether more or less fuel needs to be provided by the injection system.
What types of lambda sensors are there?
There are two types of lambda sensors:
- Narrowband (or binary) – less accurate but cheaper;
- Wideband (or linear) – more accurate but more expensive.
What does a lambda sensor do ?
Lambda sensors are used to detect oxygen levels in the gases released by exhaust systems.
The sensor transmits the information to the control unit, which then channels more or less fuel into the car engine.
To learn more about the electronic control unit, check out our article: What is the electronic control unit (ECU) used for?
How do lambda sensors work?
Lambda sensors are operated via electrical signals that transmit engine needs to the electronic control unit.
Lambda sensor operations begin by measuring the amount of oxygen coming out of a car exhaust system. This information is then transmitted to the car’s control unit.
The control unit then establishes the optimal amount of fuel required by the engine and sends this information to the injection system.
The last step consists of the electronic injection system sending adequate fuel to the engine block.
To learn more about electronic injection systems, check out our article: How the Electronic Injection system works
Where is the lambda sensor located in a car?
A car lambda sensor is located in the engine’s exhaust manifold before the catalytic converter.
KROFtools recommends using the appropriate tools to insert and remove this component.
To learn more about your car’s catalytic converter, check out our article: Catalyst: Why they want to steal it
Which symptoms point towards problems in a Lambda sensor?
- Increased fuel consumption;
- Black smoke is released from the exhaust;
- Rough idling;
- Loss of power at high speeds.
When should I replace my car’s lambda sensor?
Lambda sensors do not need to be replaced unless damaged.
How much does a lambda sensor cost?
Lambda sensors cost around 25 euros and can be purchased from a manufacturer-approved garage.
Which KROFtools products can you use to remove a lambda sensor?
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Lambda sensor 1/2″ socket 22mm
Our 1/2″ 22mm Lambda sensor socket is specially designed to fit into hard-to-reach areas.
The opening on the side of the socket means the socket can be used in conjunction with sensor wires.
Click on the image below to find out more about our Lambda sensor 1/2″ socket 22mm (ref. 1598).
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Lambda sensor socket 3/8” 22mm
Our 3/8” 22mm Lambda Sensor Socket with a Window has a length of 78mm to allow mechanics to easily access sensors in deep locations.
Click on the image below to learn more about the Lambda sensor socket 3/8” 22mm (ref.1595).
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Lambda sensor socket 3/8” 22mm
Our crowfoot Lambda sensor socket 3/8” 22mm makes it easy for mechanics to remove the lambda sensor via its side opening.
Click on the image below to find out more about our Lambda sensor socket 3/8” 22mm (ref.1596).
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Oxygen sensor socket Set 14PCS
This set of 14 injector Wrenches and Lambda Sensor contains the full range of wrenches required to screw in and remove your car’s lambda sensor.
Most of these sockets have openings down the side, allowing them to easily fit onto the sensor.
Click on the image below to find out more about our Oxygen sensor socket set 14PCS (ref.6717).
Does your car’s lambda sensor need any maintenance?
No, lambda sensors do not require maintenance. The component has no established service life and can last hundreds of thousands of kilometres.
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