The oxygen sensor is an important component of your Audi. It can help to control how many emissions are released through the engine as it runs and can keep the fuel to air balance in check.
When the O2 sensor stops working well, it can cause a number of issues inside of the Audi. As soon as you notice some of the signs and symptoms of the O2 sensor going bad, it is important to visit a qualified mechanic to get the sensor replaced.
The Oxygen Sensor
Most vehicles work with internal combustion engines. To get the necessary power to move that vehicle, the engine will burn a specific mixture of air and fuel. When this works properly, the process will create emissions. To help the engine be more energy efficient while also minimizing emissions, all vehicles designed after 1980 have one or more O2 sensors.
These sensors are placed in specific areas of the engine to make sure the mixture of fuel is not too rich or too lean. The number of these sensors in the vehicle will depend on the type of vehicle. A V6 or V8 will often have three sensors, and a 4-cylinder will have two sensors.
Signs Your Oxygen Sensor is Failing
The oxygen sensor does not need to be completely broken to start having problems. Even a failing sensor can give the Audi a few issues as you drive along. Some of the signs that you should look for to determine if your O2 sensor is bad or about to fail includes:
- The check engine light comes on: The check engine light can turn on for a variety of reasons. If you see this light turn on and it does not repair itself shortly after, then this is a sign that the oxygen sensor is failing. Take the vehicle into a mechanic where they can run diagnostics and find out what is causing the light to turn on.
- A rough engine idle: The oxygen sensor not working can affect the engine as well. If you notice that the Audi is struggling when it should be idle, then this may be a sign that your oxygen sensor is not working well.
- An engine that misfires: When the emissions are not properly taken care of, then it may cause the engine to misfire. This may leave you stranded when the engine is not able to stay started while driving.
- Fuel economy is bad: The oxygen sensor going bad will affect how well your fuel economy is in the car. If you start to notice that you are not getting as many miles per tank of gas, it may be a sign that the oxygen sensor is not doing the work that it should.
- Failed emissions inspection: There are some states that require your Audi to go through an emissions inspection. Failing one of these tests may be the first sign that your Audi is not behaving the way that it should. If you do fail one of these tests, then it is time to consider visiting a qualified mechanic to replace the sensor.
Motor Cars International
Even if you do not see any of the signs above of a failed oxygen sensor, you may need to consider replacing the existing one. These sensors are going to 
wear out over time. Because of this, after driving up to 100,000 miles with your existing sensor, you may need to replace the sensor to make sure they do not fail.
When you notice some of the symptoms of a failing oxygen sensor, or you have hit over 100,000 miles, it is time to replace the sensor. A licensed mechanic can take care of the oxygen sensor for you, improving your fuel efficiency and ensuring that you are able to drive while keeping your engine strong.
When the O2 sensor goes out on your Audi, it is important to get the work done as soon as possible. At Motor Cars International, our professional mechanics can handle all of your Audi repair problems. We are proud to serve the residents of Easton, Norton, Rayhnahm, Sharon, and Bridgewater, MA. Contact us today to get your repair scheduled. We look forward to earning your repeat business.