Most Porsche owners will do anything and everything to keep their vehicle in good shape (or at least they should!). One way to do this is by being aware of your engine health. The engine needs more than engine oil to keep its temperature stable and operations in line. One major component that supports the engine is the oxygen sensor(s). Read on to understand what an oxygen sensor is and how it works and the symptoms that indicate when they have gone bad. 

What is an Oxygen Sensor?

An oxygen sensor, or O2 sensor, is a sensory device that computes and assesses the oxygen levels in the Porsche’s exhaust system. It constantly sends information to the car's computer, which then tells other parts to make changes to the air-to-fuel ratio accordingly. When your car is able to achieve a balanced air and fuel mixture, your Porsche will run efficiently and smoothly.

What Are the Signs of a Faulty Oxygen Sensor?

There are several symptoms that indicate when the oxygen sensor has gone out.

• Check Engine Light On - The infamous, yellow check engine light will illuminate on your dashboard when your O2 sensor fails. It is worth taking your car to an auto repair shop to have them run diagnostics.
• Rough Engine/Stalling - One of the many ways a bad sensor affects your engine performance is through problems like stalling and sluggishness. If your engine runs rough, or is deficient in power, please bring your Porsche to our shop.
• Rotten Egg Smell - Your engine and exhaust system will emit a sulfur smell when your emissions system is not running efficiently. 
• Bad Gas Mileage - If you notice your Porsche consuming more fuel than normal, please visit our auto repair shop. Our team will get down to the bottom of what is causing your vehicle to consume excess fuel.

Oxygen sensors intended to function for approximately 60,000 to 90,000 miles. While they don’t require replacement as often as engine oil, they are still essential to your Porsche’s motor performance. Proper cooling system maintenance and regular Porsche inspections will allow your trusted mechanics to detect failing signs early on.

If you need oxygen sensor repair or any other auto repairs for your Porsche, we invite you to bring your vehicle to the expert team at Romay’s Auto Service today! We look forward to servicing your vehicle.