VDO, now part of the Continental Group, has added oxygen sensors to its range of aftermarket products.

Since the beginning of series production of three-way catalytic converters at the end of the 1980s, oxygen sensors have been an integral component of the engine management systems of petrol engines. They determine the residual oxygen present in the exhaust gas and forward this value to the control unit in the form of an electrical signal. An active mixture control system operates together with the three-way catalytic converter, to ensure that the vehicle complies with current emissions standards. Modern vehicles are today equipped with at least two oxygen sensors. Oxygen sensors are also increasingly being used on diesel engines.

“Oxygen sensors are exposed to high levels of stress. They are subjected to extreme temperatures, vibrations, changing gas mixtures and combustion residues,” says Benjamin Suchomel, Product Manager for Sensors at VDO. This results in an unavoidable wearing and ageing process. The consequences of defective oxygen sensors include an increase in fuel consumption of up to 15%, increased particulate emissions and deteriorating exhaust emission values resulting in failure of exhaust emissions inspections. They can also cause rough engine operation. For this reason, the experts from VDO recommend that oxygen sensors be checked regularly.

For more information on the Oxygen sensors and all VDO products contact VDO Sales Manager Jim Lyons on 0044-780-2286303