Things You'll Need:
- Oxygen sensor socket (3/8-inch drive)
- 3/8-inch drive ratchet
- Flathead screwdriver
- Safety glasses
- Portable hand torch (optional)
- Creeper (optional)
- Car ramps (recommended)
- Wheel chock
-
Step 1
Determine which sensor needs to be replaced. You may be able to access the front sensor from the engine compartment or if you're replacing the rear one near the catalytic converter, place the front of the Jeep up on car ramps, apply the parking brake, and place a wheel chock behind one of the rear tires. Grab your tools, put on the safety glasses, and crawl under on a creeper if you have one.
-
Step 2
Trace the oxygen sensor wire to the plug connection. Press in the clip lock with a flathead screwdriver and separate the plug.
-
Step 3
Put the oxygen sensor socket into the ratchet and place the oxygen sensor wire into the slot of the socket. Place the socket onto the oxygen sensor and try to remove it. If it does not budge, you may need to heat the exhaust pipe where the sensor screws in with a torch. If so, light the torch and heat the pipe area only. Once it is cherry red, reapply the socket and ratchet and remove the sensor.
-
Step 4
Allow the pipe to cool if you had to heat it with a torch. Thread the new direct-fit oxygen sensor into the porthole and tighten with the socket and ratchet. Make sure the threads of the direct-fit oxygen sensor has a light coating of anti-seize lubricant on it. Most all quality aftermarket direct-fit sensors come equipped with a light coating. Do not over-tighten the sensor.
-
Step 5
Plug the wire connection of the sensor back into the plug. Collect the tools from under the Jeep or under the hood. If your "check engine" light is on, it may take a few cycles of normal driving for it to reset itself.
