1. Check Engine Light: A faulty oxygen sensor will likely trigger the check engine light on your dashboard. This is the vehicle's way of alerting you to a problem in the emissions control system, and it indicates that the oxygen sensor is not providing accurate readings to the engine control unit (ECU).
2. Decreased Fuel Efficiency: Oxygen sensors play a crucial role in helping the ECU determine the optimal air-fuel mixture for efficient combustion. With faulty sensors, the ECU may receive incorrect information, resulting in the engine running richer than necessary. This can lead to reduced fuel economy and increased fuel consumption.
3. Rough Idling and Engine Stalling: Bad oxygen sensors can cause the engine to idle roughly or stall intermittently. This is because the ECU is unable to adjust the fuel mixture appropriately, leading to inconsistent air-fuel ratios.
4. Increased Emissions: Faulty oxygen sensors can result in higher emissions of pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and nitrogen oxides (NOx). These pollutants contribute to smog, ozone depletion, and respiratory problems.
5. Reduced Engine Performance: Oxygen sensors are crucial for the engine's performance and responsiveness. If they are not functioning correctly, the engine may experience reduced power, hesitation, or jerking while driving.
6. Catalytic Converter Damage: In some cases, prolonged driving with bad oxygen sensors can damage the catalytic converter. The catalytic converter is responsible for converting harmful pollutants into less harmful substances, and faulty oxygen sensors can cause it to overheat and become less effective.
It is important to address faulty oxygen sensors promptly to prevent any long-term damage to the vehicle's engine and emissions systems. Oxygen sensors are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace, so it's a cost-effective repair that can improve the overall performance and longevity of your Toyota Sequoia.
