The Cost of Ignoring Mercedes Oxygen Sensor Failure

When was the last time you had your Mercedes oxygen sensor tested???

For many, the oxygen sensor is just another trivial part that doesn't require any attention. But truth be told, the importance of this sensor is much greater than you might think. From eliminating harmful emissions to optimizing engine operation; the oxygen sensor plays a role in all major engine functions. As you read this post you will come to know about the signs of oxygen sensor failure in cars and the consequences of ignoring them.

Understanding the Significance of Oxygen Sensor

The oxygen sensor in your Mercedes is essentially an electronic part with an oxygen-sensing electrode at its center. Measuring the residual oxygen content in exhaust emissions is all that an oxygen sensor does… This measurement helps the engine control unit with many different things; from regulating the air-to-fuel ratio to setting the ignition timing.

If your Mercedes oxygen sensor starts acting up, you will face all kinds of troubles. Below we have a detailed discussion of the possible effects of driving with a bad oxygen sensor. Please take a look.

Consequences of Oxygen Sensor Failure in Mercedes

#1- Impact on performance

The thing about the engine control module or ECM is that it relies on different sensors for real-time data so that it can perform many of its tasks like regulating fuel injection among other things. If the oxygen sensor is acting up, the ECM's ability to control various aspects of engine operation will be significantly restricted; your Mercedes engine will run poorly as a result.

#2- Impact on MPG

Another problem commonly associated with oxygen sensor failure in a vehicle is a sudden increase in the rate of fuel consumption. To keep the air-to-fuel ratio inside the combustion chamber within optimal range which is around 14.7:1, the ECM relies on different sensors including the oxygen sensor. Inaccurate data provided by a faulty oxygen sensor may disturb the air-to-fuel ratio within the engine; which may result in bad MPG.

#3- Impact on emissions

If there is something wrong with the oxygen sensor the emergence of harmful exhaust emissions will increase significantly. Yup, you read that right… Among other things, the oxygen sensor plays a vital role in keeping the exhaust emission levels of your vehicle under control. You will notice a significant hike in exhaust emissions if there is a flaw in the oxygen sensor. Your Mercedes might fail an emissions test because of this.

As you can see, oxygen sensor failure can contribute to all sorts of drivability problems in a vehicle. If you fail to act in time, you could end up spending thousands of dollars. So, how can you tell if your Mercedes’ oxygen sensor is acting up???

Signs Your Mercedes Oxygen Sensor Need Replacing

Clue #1- Illuminated engine light

Since the oxygen sensor has a lot to do with the engine operation and eliminating harmful emissions; if it goes bad, the onboard diagnostic system will eagerly activate the check engine warning light. An error code will also be stored in the flaw memory.

Clue #2- Exhaust smells like sulfur

Yup!!! The exhaust fumes from your Mercedes will smell sulfurous as if there is a rotten egg inside the exhaust pipe. The oxygen sensor, if has a flaw, will make it hard for the ECM to keep the air-to-fuel ratio within the combustion chamber properly balanced. As a result, a rotten egg-like smell will emerge out of the exhaust.

In addition to these two noteworthy signs, you will notice rough engine idle, and cylinder misfire among other signs if there is something wrong with your Mercedes' oxygen sensor. In any case, if it happens to you that the oxygen sensor of your Mercedes has a fault, you should take immediate action before things get worse.

In Conclusion

The oxygen sensor, a part we often take for granted, plays a vital role in the overall functionality of a vehicle's engine. Like any other car part, the oxygen sensor can go bad at some point. Not replacing a defective oxygen sensor on time can contribute to all sorts of drivability problems in a vehicle; ranging from poor acceleration to emissions problems. So, if it's been a while since you checked your Mercedes' oxygen sensor, have it checked by a certified professional.

Mint Automotive is one of the most sought after German Automobile Specialists. At Mint Automotive we are dedicated to German automobile servicing and repairing which includes Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Mini Cooper and Volkswagen.