Possible O2 sensor problem

[1st_runner]

The other day on my way to work my CHECK ENGINE, VSC TRAC, & VSC OFF lights all came on & have stayed on. My wife works for a local dealer & talked to some people that said it sounds like my O2 sensor has gone bad. Does this sound right as the possible problem? Has anybody here run into this? Any input on this would be greatly appreciated.

Lee

 

[sharp4runr]

Do a search on the messageboard and you'll see that it has happened to people before (including myself). I wouldn't say that it is common, but it does happen. Must have been a bad batch of O2 sensors or something.

My lights came on after a Sulfur TSB had been completed. I'm pointing my finger at the Toyota techs since they last touched it, but your case may be different. If it just went bad, then it probably is part of that batch of bad sensors.

 

[Serge]

The other day on my way to work my CHECK ENGINE, VSC TRAC, & VSC OFF lights all came on & have stayed on. My wife works for a local dealer & talked to some people that said it sounds like my O2 sensor has gone bad. Does this sound right as the possible problem? Has anybody here run into this? Any input on this would be greatly appreciated.

Lee

Hello Lee,

First of all I'd like to tell you that this subject has been previously widely discussed on this forum and other similar forums. Recently I managed to fix exactly the same "3 little orange friends" problem.

What I've done?

1. Read almost everything on this issue in the web.
2. Compared to the symptoms and charasteristics of my car.
3. Gone to the Autozone to scan the trouble code (they do it for free, locations www.autozone.com).
4. On some website (sorry don't remember the name) found what this trouble code means. Mine was P1135 and I have 4runner 2001 Limited with 106K miles on it. And the problem was with the air/fuel ratio sensor (the same as an oxygen sensor on non-California spec vehicles). What is interesting that Autozone's computer was saying different problem.
5. Learned that it's better to replace the sensor with the OEM part. At the local Toyota's stealership parts department purchased one for $204 Part # 89467-35011. That is one, which is closer to the engine and before the catalytic convector. They will ask you for VIN.
6. Replaced it for $86, disconnected and placed back the negative battery cable and the lights were gone.

That's my story!
I wish you good luck in yours!