O2 Sensor Problems

[Laga]

Just when I thought I had everything done, the car started to intermittently not start. It would turn over normally, but not fire. If I let it sit for a couple of minutes, it would then start. Yesterday, I got a CEL and two codes P0060 & P2272. The first is a faulty Bank 2, Sensor 2 error code and the second is a lean code for same sensor. It is the downstream sensor on the drivers side, and Lito confirmed that since I have cats. The downstream sensors are active. Hopefully, it’s just an inspect and/or replace the sensor job.

 

[redfirepearlgt]

often the lean on o2 2 is an exhaust leak. that was my experience. i only had the lean code however. happened right after i did a clutch swap.

 

[redfirepearlgt]

it may also be in the extension harness as well provided with the lts. try swapping the sensors. reset and see if the code changes or stays the same. if stays same then try swapping the extender harness if using them.

 

[Laga]

The exhaust SHOULD be good as it was checked recently.

I just got done driving the car on the front ramps and jacking up the rear. In that time, the P0060 code came back on. I plan on testing the wiring first thing. Thanks.

 

[86GT351]

Easiest test is to swap sensors. If the issue switches sides, there is your answer. I would think if you were lean from exhaust leaks, it would hit sensor 1

 

[Laga]

The P0060 code is for incorrect resistance in the sensor. I tested the old one and got 3.8 ohms. Online video shows it should be 5.8. The new one I had on hand tested 5.8. Cleaned extension connections, reassembled, and no CEL. I got lucky for once.

 

[JC SSP]

Congratulations on quick resolution.

I change F/R O2's on all my cars when break 100K... just to be safe.

 

[Laga]

O2 sensor had 15K miles and was 5 years old. Only saw snow twice in that time and is kept in a heated 70°F garage.
Both downstream sensors are set in 2, 1” “spacers” to help pass emissions. Maybe that had something to do with short life.

 

[JC SSP]

Just noticed you are E85. You think that had anything to do with failing O2 sensor?

 

[Laga]

Just noticed you are E85. You think that had anything to do with failing O2 sensor?

I have no idea. But I don’t think so. Out of the 15K miles, I’m guessing less than half that was on E85. While E85 does create more water vapor when it burns than gasoline, there was no rust on the sensor. I think it was just a bad sensor. I replaced the other downstream sensor since the car was jacked up because there’s nothing I hate more than being stranded by a car that won’t start.

 

[BottleRocket]

I purchased my '08 GT/CS at 29K miles with Ford shorty headers, a Ford CAI, the Hot Rod cams, and the Ford 'Box' tune. I already had a set of BBK LTs and a BBK high flow cat mid pipe, I had to purchase the hardware kit that came with the O2 sensor extentions. I was teaching at a local high school and my friend was the auto tech teacher so I let him install the LTs for me (he had the lift). When he was done with the install I immediately got the O2 codes (I don't remember the exact codes). A quick trip to my local tuner took care of the codes (I didn't ask him what he did, he didn't offer). It's run great ever since, no bucking, no 'will not start' conditions. It even takes a full tank of gas in seconds. I know it's due for a tune, i.e., plugs, throttle body clean, MAF sensor clean, etc. I just hate to mess with it because it runs so good. Besides, I'm 67, I have young friends who are always messing with their cars and they always have problems, I don't have time. My philosophy is, 'If it's not broke, don't fix it'. Good luck with your lean codes.

 

[redfirepearlgt]

E85 tuned cars are prone to premature O2 sensor failure when compared to standard fuel vehicles in general. That does not mean someone won't claim they have been running E85 on OEM sensors for over 100K with no issues....because even a blind squirrel finds a nut in the forest once in a while, but as a general rule E85 is hard on O2 sensors and their life is shortened.

 

[Laga]

but as a general rule E85 is hard on O2 sensors and their life is shortened.

I don’t know if that’s true. After JC asked the question above, I did some research. Found a lot of anecdotal claims but little actual evidence. Flex fuel vehicles do not have different sensors from the factory. Some low end LT headers have O2 sensor bungs in the wrong orientation, which can lead to them retaining water.

I have Kooks headers and two extensions stacked. I replaced the extensions with the sensors as the exteriors, and threads that screw into headers, were severely rusted. The interiors were not. They were coated with soot.

On one forum, I found this, take it for what’s it’s worth.

“I am a product specialist with Walker Products, a manufacturer and worldwide distributor of oxygen sensors. E85 burns very well and, as posted above, will not contaminate or otherwise harm your O2 sensors.”

 

[JC SSP]

THX Laga for confirmation.

I don't' know squat about E85 that's why I posed the question, but my buddy with a high HP GN swears by it.

I don't think I am at the level on Audi to even consider an E85 upgrade, well not yet... LOL

 

[Laga]

THX Laga for confirmation.

I don't' know squat about E85 that's why I posed the question, but my buddy with a high HP GN swears by it.

I don't think I am at the level on Audi to even consider an E85 upgrade, well not yet... LOL

If you have FI and it’s available, it’s really a no-brainer for the advantages it supplies.