5 Signs Your BMW Oxygen Sensor Is Failing in Georgia Now the modern cars like BMW have multiple sensors that can help them to run more smoothly as well as increase fuel mileage and produce less emission. Among the different sensors, the oxygen sensor or O2 sensor is the most popular one that is responsible for measuring the levels of oxygen in the exhaust system. All we know is that a car needs the right amount of oxygen to ignite the fuel. So, the sensor makes sure that your engine receives the proper ratio of oxygen to fuel for moving efficiently. In general, the O2 sensor is a tiny device that can read the oxygen level of the exhaust system and send that information to the computer for proper fuel mixture. Through this process, the fuel mixture is constantly transferred from lean to rich levels. If the oxygen level is reduced for any reason, then the car will not run effectively. The following points define the signs of failed oxygen sensor in the BMW.
Rough engine idling Thus, the smooth engine idling of the car is completely relying on the air/fuel mixture. If the air/fuel mixture is lean then ensure that it has too much air and less gas. As a result, the engine idles roughly due to the lack of enough fuel. On the other hand, too lean air/fuel mixture may stall the engine. At this point, when you are trying to start the engine the red light has turned into green. Subsequently, you will experience other problems in the car such as slow acceleration and indicates low gas in the engine.
Decrease fuel mileage Generally, the O2 sensor is playing an important role in the car for maintaining its air and fuel proportion which is used by the engine for delivering the right amount of power. But, when the oxygen sensor is failed, excess fuel is included in the oxygen and fuel proportion. Therefore, it will reduce the fuel mileage of the car ultimately. If you notice an excessive amount of black smoke produced from the exhaust of the car, then it is clearly indicating the unburnt fuel-like carbon in the exhaust. When it happens, check the O2 sensor by a reputed mechanic without any delay.
Activated check engine light Every part of the automotive system is attached with a sensor, so when it has any problems, you will notice that the relevant warning light is illuminated on the dashboard. Like the other problems, the failed oxygen sensor in your BMW also activated the check engine light.
All we know is that the oxygen sensor is a part of the emission system. So, when the air/fuel mixture turns too rich or too lean, the check engine light is triggered on the dashboard. In this case, bring it to an auto repair shop for determining the causes behind the activated check engine light.
Missed engine When the oxygen sensor of the car is failed, it will not only affect the air/fuel mixture but also interrupt the functions of the combustion chamber. Like the other signs, the missed engine is also a common sign of a bad oxygen sensor. In this case, you will notice that the engine is either running at a low speed or is in idle mode. Check the oxygen sensor by a professional mechanic when the engine failed to accelerate properly. Avoiding the issues for longer may result in expensive repairs or replacements, so take care of the problem as early as possible.
Rotten egg smell Due to the failed oxygen sensor, the BMW will start to inject a higher amount of fuel into the engine. Moreover, the extra fuel in the car will produce a sulfuric or rotten egg smell that needs the immediate attention of a mechanic. With the rotten egg smell, the failed O2 sensor also produces black smoke from the exhaust system. As a result, your car does not pass its emission test. So, it's always advisable to inspect the car in the right way.
Conclusion In general, the oxygen sensor lasts in your BMW lasts longer than 90,000 miles, but in older cars, it only lasts for 60,000 miles. If you notice any of the above-defined signs in your BMW while driving on the roads of Georgia, then get the oxygen sensor checked by a reputed mechanic and replace it on time. Replacing it on time will save your money on major repairs.