The German engineered Audi relies on oxygen sensors within its highly designed system for several important reasons. Although you may go through the life of owning your Audi without having any issues, there is always the possibility that you could experience an oxygen sensor failure over time. We will examine the reasons an oxygen sensor failure may occur, and what you should do if this arises on your Audi.
Purpose of the Oxygen Sensor
There are normally two oxygen sensors located on your Audi, with slightly different purposes. One is designed to keep track of the fuel and oxygen mixture ratio that is optimum for your Audi’s performance and is located before the catalytic converter. The second is located after the catalytic convertor and monitors the performance of the convertor itself. Both of these duties are an important part of the emissions control systems to prevent unwanted pollution, while also making sure your car runs as efficiently as designed.
Symptoms of a Bad Oxygen Sensor
Of course, to know you have an issue with one of your Audi’s oxygen sensors, you must know what to look for. Below are a few examples of how to know when you have a failing oxygen sensor in your Audit.
- Reduced Gas Mileage: Since an oxygen sensor is designed to give your Audi the most efficient fuel operation, a failing one can present itself in reduced gas mileage. If you think that your vehicle is no longer getting the gas mileage it once had, this could be a reason.
- Engine Light/Code: Almost always, your Audi will display an error in the form of a check engine light if there is something wrong with an oxygen sensor. This is one reason a car will not pass most emissions inspections if your check engine light is on. If your check engine light illuminates, have it checked as soon as possible by a certified Audi professional technician.
- Exhaust Smoke: Your Audi’s exhaust system is designed to have any fumes finally exit through it. If an oxygen sensor is not properly mixing the right amount of fuel and oxygen, you may see a dark colored smoke coming from your tailpipe.
- Poor Performance: Other than poor gas mileage your Audi may also experience a loss of performance. When pressing on the gas if power is lost, or sputtering and jerking occur, it could be a malfunctioning oxygen sensor.
Reasons an Oxygen Sensor Fails
- Poor Fuel Mixture: Carbon deposits can form within the oxygen sensors overtime, making them less reliable to adjust to the correct mix that is required. Once the oxygen sensor has begun to fail, it is time to have it repaired.
- Bypass of Oil: Oil that is leaking may enter the fuel system and contaminate the oxygen sensors. Once this happens it is time to replace these components.
- Silicone: Certain silicone sealants can release vapors that damage the sensor.
- Contaminated fuel: Not all fuel stations are the same. Some older stations may have contamination of water or other particles within their system. Once you have placed “bad gas” into your Audi or any other car you’ll find that it can be detrimental to the oxygen sensors and other components.
Preventive Care
One of the most important things you can do to keep the performance of your Audi at a top level is to have the oxygen sensors changed out according to standards. Audi recommends that you have your oxygen sensors changed at intervals of every 60,000 to 90,000 miles. Of course this will be a part of any service plan recommended by Audi professionals. Make sure to have your car placed on a service plan to maintain the best care and performance that you expect from your Audi.
Trust Us With Your Audi
With our excellence guarantee and industry 
experts Euromotive Performance is your go to dealership alternative for the service and repair of your Audi. Serving the Hallandale Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida area, we specialize in high end European models. Whether you need your Audi’s oxygen sensors replaced or a repair made to your vehicle, you can trust us to do the job right.
