How do you change an o2 sensor on a 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier how easyhard is it to do and where exactly is it located?

Answer 1

Finding it is the hardest part (in my opinion). In other words, it's an easy job.

The FRONT oxygen sensors are at the exhaust manifold.

Notice where the exhaust manifold comes out of the engine, follow it down to where it all joins just before where it goes into the exhaust pipe. Somewhere near there you'll see a device that looks a little like a sparkplug and it will have a small wire going to it. That's the oxygen sensor.

Before removing the old sensor, get the new one and have it in your hand for inspection. Notice the wire coming out the top and compare it to the wire that comes out of the old oxygen sensor. Sometimes the replacement oxygen sensors have a longer wire and a plug, sometimes you have to "splice" them into the line.

If your replacement sensor has an electrical plug on it, make sure it matches the plug on your car.

If the replacement does NOT have an electrical plug or if the electrical plug doesn't match YOUR plug... you'll need to "splice" it into place, but the replacement kit should have the crimp connectors to help you there.

After you're satisfied that you have everything you need, remove the old sensor. You can purchase a special socket that has a slot for the wire to lay in. That's helpful when putting the new sensor back into place.

The old sensor should screw out, but it might be a little rusted in and you might need to fight it a little.

Put the new sensor in place, making sure that you remove the plastic protector first. Tighten it, splice the wires if necessary making sure that you connect the colors properly. If the colors on the wires aren't the same as your old unit the directions will tell you what to do.

Once it's screwed in and electrically connected, you're done.