1998 Ford Contour Code P1151

Tiny
JBRYAN
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 FORD CONTOUR
  • 2.6L
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 111,000 MILES
I looked up code and leads to an O2 sensor problem. I'm not a mechanic nut can I fix this problem myself by changing the sensors. I can visit my local autozone to pick up replacement parts but is this a problem that I can fix myself or would I have to take it into a mechanic. Attempting to save money I don't have. If I have to take the car in to be fix, what is the approx cost. I am failing my emissions inspection. Thanks
Tuesday, October 28th, 2014 AT 3:02 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
WRENCHTECH
  • MECHANIC
  • 20,758 POSTS
It could be a bad sensor or it could be a lean running engine. Some testing would have to be performed to find out which.
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Tuesday, October 28th, 2014 AT 4:23 PM
Tiny
JBRYAN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I appreciate your response. Thank you so much. Can you tell me what does a lean running engine mean, sorry I am attempting to educate myself on this.
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Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 AT 7:04 AM
Tiny
WRENCHTECH
  • MECHANIC
  • 20,758 POSTS
The computer is engineered to maintain a 14.7:1 air/fuel ratio at all times. The code is telling you that the computer is reaching it's adaptive limits trying to maintain that. Too much air, not enough fuel being mixed.
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Wednesday, October 29th, 2014 AT 7:41 AM

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