Car Fix DIY Videos

http://chevroletforum.com/how-tos is the leading Chevy Silverado resource for technical DIY guides. Learn how to replace the upstream oxygen sensors in your truck in a few simple steps. 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 upstream 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 upstream oxygen sensors, a flathead screwdriver, a ⅞ inch crescent wrench, and wire cutters. A breaker bar, jack and jack stands are optional materials.

The upstream oxygen sensors are located between the exhaust manifold and the exhaust. One is on the driver’s side, and the other is 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 1 oxygen sensor on the driver’s side looks like.
This is what the Bank 2 Sensor 1 oxygen sensor on the passenger’s side looks like. Although located in different areas, replacement of both sensors is the same process.

● Use wire cutters to cut the clip securing the oxygen wire harness to the frame rail.
● Pull the wire harness free and disconnect it.
● Using a flathead screwdriver, pry out the metal clip securing the wire harness that’s directly connected to the oxygen sensor.
● Use the ⅞ inch crescent wrench to remove the O2 sensor. You may need a breaker bar for extra leverage.

Step Three – Install the new oxygen sensors

● Hand-tighten the new O2 sensor into place, then use the ⅞ inch crescent wrench to tighten the O2 sensor to a snug fit.
● Reconnect the wire harness to the new O2 sensor, route the wire harness to the frame rail, 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.