BMW 3-Series E46 (1998 - 2005) - Year ?? - 2.3 front oxygen lambda sensor

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Mon 31 Mar 2008 02:16
Year ?? - 2.3 front oxygen lambda sensor - Blenheim_Limousine_Hire
I just recently returned from BMW Milton Keynes who informed me that my engine management light was on and then charged me £60 for the privilege of telling me 'why' is was on!

Apparently the cause is the front oxygen lambda sensor that is situated on the outlet exhaust downpipe manifold. Interesting enough I read your comment and noted what you said about the split air intake pipes in the engine compartment! I say this because BMW also said I had a possible split pipe? Would it therefore be plausable to suggest that there is infact NOTHING wrong with the lambda sensor at all, but that the perished rubber pipe may be causing the sensor to fluctuate - therefore appearing to to be faulty?

Of course I appreciate that it is impossible to derive a definate answer without seeing/inspecting the vehicle in question. However, all feedback would be gratefully appreciated.

I will provide you all with my results in the hope that it will help future readers not only time, but costly labour charges at BMW's hourly rate of £110.00+vat per hour!

{Would help if you tell us the year it was registered; also whether petrol or diesel - see sticky posts for more info}

Edited by Dynamic Dave on 31/03/2008 at 11:08

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Mon 31 Mar 2008 14:27
Year ?? - 2.3 front oxygen lambda sensor - Screwloose

Of course they charged for diagnostics - do you give your time and use of your capital outlay away free?

What exact code[s] did they read? There are lots of oxygen sensor codes and the devil is in which one. Fault-codes do not necessarily mean faulty components.
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