Car Fix DIY Videos

http://chevroletforum.com/how-tos is the leading Chevrolet Silverado resource for technical DIY guides. Replace the downstream oxygen sensors in your truck using a few tools. For the full step-by-step article, please visit http://chevroletforum.com/how-tos/a/chevrolet-silverado-1999-2006-how-to-replace-oxygen-o2-sensors-392996

Oxygen sensors measure the oxygen levels in your truck’s exhaust gas before and after passing through the catalytic converter. By measuring the amount of oxygen leftover after engine combustion, the truck’s on-board computer can adjust the air-to-fuel ratio accordingly. By keeping this mixture balanced, the computer prevents the engine from running too lean or too rich.
Make sure the oxygen sensors in your Silverado are functioning properly. Here’s how to replace the downstream oxygen sensors.

This easy job takes thirty minutes to an hour and costs from $80 to $160 dollars. A professional may charge from $180 to $260 dollars.

This job requires two new downstream oxygen sensors, a flathead screwdriver, and a ⅞ inch crescent wrench. A breaker bar, jack and jack stands are optional materials.

The downstream sensors are located after the catalytic converter. There’s one on the driver’s side and one on the passenger side.

Step One – Disconnect the battery and lift your truck if necessary

Always disconnect the negative terminal of the battery when working with electrical components and wiring.
It’s not necessary to lift your truck, but you can do so for more work space.

Step Two – Remove the old oxygen sensors

This is what the Bank 1 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor on the driver’s side looks like.
This is what the Bank 2 Sensor 2 oxygen sensor on the passenger’s side looks like. Although located in different areas, replacement of both sensors is the same process.

● Using your flat head screwdriver, pry out the clip holding the wire harness to the sheet metal.
● Disconnect the oxygen sensor wire harness from the sensor.
● Use the ⅞ inch crescent wrench to remove the oxygen sensor. You may need a breaker bar for extra leverage.

Step Three – Install the new oxygen sensors

● Hand-tighten the new oxygen sensor into place.
● Use the ⅞ inch crescent wrench to tighten the oxygen sensor to a snug fit.
● Reconnect the wire harness to the new oxygen sensor, and push the wire harness clip back into place.
● Start the engine and let it run for at least five minutes, so the computer can adjust to the new sensors.