Oxygen Sensor Issue

[neo4you]

I have a 2000 LS V6 with 138K miles. About a month ago the Engine Check light came on. So I wnet to Autozone, and that's what their reading was:

Error code P0141 - oxygen sensor malfunction

Definition - H02S 12 Heater condition (heated Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2)
Explanation - The PCM monitors the oxygen sensor heater. The computer has recognized a failure in this circuit.
Probable Causes - 1. O2 sensor defective. 2. Poor connection at oxygen sensor. 3. Check circuit - fuse.

OK, so should I go to a mechanic for an estimate? Should I do it myself and if yes, what is exactly the problem and what parts do I need?
Or just let it go? What does this problem mean to me? Will I get a lower fuel economy or something or can it lead to something serious?

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

 

[Jim Henderson]

O2 sensors wear out and need to be replaced periodically. Usually they wear out around 80K to 100K. Yours is probably well overdue.

I have not had to do this on the LS yet since mine doesn't have the miles. But usually there are two O2 sensors on each bank. One before and one after the cat. Usually the one before the cat is the one that goes bad.

As tight as the LS is for maintenance, I would guess this will require you to have arms like an octopus. Hope I am wrong.

If you can get at the O2 sensor, it comes out with either an open end wrench or they sell special sockets for it. Usually it is stuck pretty good so you will need to honk on it pretty good.

When you replace it be sure to use the high temp antisieze paste that sometimes comes with it, or buy some. Don't get any on the nose of the sensor.

I think Sensor 2 is after the cat, don't know which one is bank 1. Hope one of the guys can give you specifics, especially since usually the after cat sensors don't fail before the precats.

This is an easy repair IF you can get to it.

Good Luck,

Jim Henderson

 

[Jim Henderson]

Forgot the last part of your question.

Bad O2 sensors will usually lead to poor gas mileage, maybe drivability issues.

Good Luck,

Jim Henderson

 

[neo4you]

Thank you for the advice, I'll give it a shot on my next day off.