1998 Ford Taurus Oxygen sensors?

Tiny
AKBROWN81
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 FORD TAURUS
  • 6 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 120,000 MILES
A few weeks ago my check engine soon light came on, and the computer at AdvanceAuto indicated that both oxygen sensors needed to be replaced. Since then I have noticed a slight decrease in gas mileage and a leak from the positive terminal of my battery. Now after my car has been running for at least 15-20 minutes with the air conditioning on, if I idle for more than a few seconds, it will shudder, engine rpms waver up and down, and stall out. What seems to be the fix for this? Do I really need to replace both oxygen sensors, or is there more likely a problem with the hoses around the manifold? Is replacing the battery necessary or could I clean and brush the terminals and apply some silicone grease?
Wednesday, June 25th, 2008 AT 7:54 PM

2 Replies

Tiny
MASTERTECHTIM
  • MECHANIC
  • 4,749 POSTS
Most likely its a vacuum leak and not the o2 sensors. Look real close at the pcv valve hose and the hose at the rear valve cover where it makes a 90 degree bend, this is where they usually corrode and collapse. If all ok then clean mass air flow sensor with cleaner, they make a special cleaner. Get back to us if you need further assistance
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Wednesday, June 25th, 2008 AT 8:02 PM
Tiny
MASTERTECHTIM
  • MECHANIC
  • 4,749 POSTS
Were the codes 171 and 174?
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Wednesday, June 25th, 2008 AT 8:03 PM

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