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Audis are known for high performance and fantastic reliability combined in a sleek and sophisticated exterior. In order to keep your model in top condition, you should be sure to have it regularly inspected and serviced to avoid issues, such as a faulty oxygen sensor.
Your vehicle’s oxygen sensor should be replaced every 60,000-90,000 miles. If you notice any of the signs below of a faulty oxygen sensor, you should bring your vehicle in sooner to prevent your vehicle from experiencing reduced performance.
Oxygen sensors are often included during routine inspections, but it is always a good idea to check with your mechanic to ensure that the oxygen sensor is inspected when you bring your vehicle in. An Audi specialist who is familiar with your make and model is the best option for maintenance and repairs.
The Oxygen Sensor
The oxygen sensor is located in the exhaust system and is responsible for ensuring your vehicle’s combustion process is operating as efficiently as possible. It does this by monitoring the amount of oxygen in the exhaust and sending that information to the vehicle’s computer. If the air-to-fuel ratio isn’t correct, then the vehicle’s computer can adjust the ratio as necessary.
The following are some of the benefits a properly working oxygen sensor provides by maintaining the optimal air-to-fuel ratio:
- Your vehicle has more efficient gas mileage.
- Your vehicle will have an increased performance.
- The fuel burned by your vehicle will produce less harmful emissions.
- The lifespan of your vehicle’s parts will increase.
Common Signs that Your Audi’s Oxygen Sensor is Faulty
In order to keep your Audi’s oxygen sensor in good working condition, it is important to recognize the signs that your vehicle’s oxygen sensor may be malfunctioning.
- check engine light comes on
- reduced gas mileage
- vehicle shakes or vibrates while idling
- engine hesitates when accelerating
- engine stalls after starting
- black exhaust emissions
If your vehicle is showing any of these signs, then it is important to have your Audi inspected and serviced by an expert technician. It is much more cost effective to have your faulty oxygen sensor replaced than to continue driving. If you don’t, you will spend more money on fuel and will need to pay for new parts more often to replace the ones that become worn out faster due to a decrease in vehicle performance.
Common Causes of a Faulty Oxygen Sensor
Just like other vehicle parts, the oxygen sensor will become worn over time and need to be replaced. However, the most common cause of a faulty oxygen sensor is the buildup of engine deposits that block the sensor from monitoring the air in the exhaust successfully. The following could be the cause behind your vehicle’s faulty oxygen sensor:
- The oxygen sensor is old or worn down.
- The oxygen sensor is covered with orange rust from corrosion caused by lead contamination.
- The oxygen sensor is covered in patches of white deposits caused by exposure to coolant.
- The oxygen sensor is covered in fuel, leaving it dark and blocked.
- The oxygen sensor is covered in a white deposit caused by a silicone sealant.
If the oxygen sensor is worn, you might notice your check engine light come on. While the check engine light can indicate a wide variety of vehicle issues, a diagnostic test performed by an automotive expert will determine whether or not the oxygen sensor is the issue.
Corpus Auto Service
As a family-owned and operated business, Corpus Auto Service is 
dedicated to providing quality services to both you and your vehicle. Our ASE-certified technicians are highly experienced and ready to ensure your vehicle is performing at its best while using our state-of-the-art equipment and diagnostic tools.
In order to make our customers feel more secure in their vehicle’s repairs, we offer a 1-year warranty on all repairs carried out by our shop’s technicians.
If you are in or around Corpus Christi, Texas, and your vehicle is showing signs of a faulty oxygen sensor or is in need of its regularly scheduled maintenance, bring it to Corpus Auto Service. We will make sure your car in expert care to keep you and your family safe.