According to OBD code P0138, my 1999 Jeep needs the heated O2 sensor. IIUC, that is the one back behind the cat.
The difference between the universal and vehicle-specific O2 sensors is about 1/2 or twice the cost.
Can the Universal O2 sensor be used?
Does it present any problem?
Is there a reason to stay with the vehicle-specific one even though its twice the money?
Are O2 sensors from the junk yard even worth considering?


Thanks.

Michael

 

I believe the universal O2 requires cutting/splicing wires where the OEM O2 just plugs into the factory harnes.

 

I've used the universals before and they work great. There's usually only 2 wires going to the 02 sensor so its not rocket science.

 

I really don't understand.
After I found the cracked, and broken fuel filler, I disconnected the battery to reset the codes. When the "Check Engine" light came on, I went to have the codes read, and that's when I got this P0138 for the heated O2 sensor.
I posted here about universal O2, and then I drove the Jeep, and the light went out. I even stopped, and restarted the engine to be sure the bulb was OK.
So now everything is OK.
Do ALL Jeeps heal themselves?

 

OBD often just sends people on wild goose chases... the real problem, if there is any, is often something else.