How to Change the Oxygen Sensor on a 2002 Solara

Exhaust manifold

The oxygen sensor in your Toyota Solara is an important part of your vehicle's exhaust system. The sensor keeps track of the unburned oxygen in the exhaust as the exhaust exits the engine. The sensor then controls the fuel mixture, regulating the engine emissions. A bad or failing oxygen sensor can cause your Solara to fail a required emissions test during an inspection, and can also affect the gas mileage of your vehicle. Replacing the oxygen sensor is crucial in maintaining your vehicle's performance.

Things You'll Need

• Wrench
• Oxygen sensor socket or 22 mm socket
• Owner's manual
• Replacement oxygen sensor

Instructions

1. Turn the Toyota Solara off and let the vehicle cool down for twenty minutes before working under the hood.

2. Locate the hood release button inside the Solara and open the hood; you can find the button on the driver side of the vehicle, under the steering column. Locate the oxygen sensor. The sensor can be found on the exhaust manifold on the passenger side of the Solara. If needed, refer to the owner's manual for a diagram.

3. Remove the sensor using a socket wrench along with an oxygen sensor socket. If you do not have a special oxygen sensor socket, you can use a regular 22 mm socket instead. Turn the socket wrench counterclockwise to loosen and remove the sensor.

4. Install the new oxygen sensor by connecting it into the exhaust manifold. Close the hood of the Toyota Solara and your vehicle is now ready for use.

References

• Start Racing: Oxygen Sensor--Replacement and Information
• AA1 Car: Oxygen Sensor Replacement