Prizm L4-1800cc 1.8L DOHC (1993)
Oxygen Sensor: Description and Operation
Federal
Oxygen Sensor Operation
The oxygen sensor measure the oxygen content in the exhaust and sends a voltage signal to the ECM.
The oxygen sensor is mounted in the exhaust pipe, just below the exhaust manifold.
The sensor consists of a steel housing, sensor tip and its protective sleeve. The sensor tip itself is made from a platinum covered zirconium-oxide pipe.
This sensor produces a measureable voltage by comparing the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gas with the amount in the ambient air.
The sensor operates only within a certain temperature range of approx. 545 - 1530°F (285 - 850°C).
The exhaust gases reach the outer surface of the oxygen sensor tip via the openings in the protective sleeve. Ambient air reaches the sensor's inner
surface via channels. The differance in oxygen content produces a voltage read by the ECM.
