My mechanic tells me that the lambda costs around RM1,200, and the only way to confirm if my unit is faulty is by swapping it with a new one. Is there another way to test the lambda sensor?
THE lambda or oxygen sensor tells the engine control unit (ECU) if there is too much or too little fuel entering the engine in order that adjustments can be made.
The Xantia uses a four-wire sensor – two wires supply power to the heater, and the remaining two are signal wires.
The sensor can easily be tested using a high-impedance voltmeter, such as the digital types.
First, measure the resistance between the two heater wires. It should show a resistance of no more than 12 ohms.
Next, start the engine and measure the voltage at the signal wires. The voltage should vary between 0.5 and 1.0 volts.
The absence of a voltage, or if the voltage does not vary, indicates a malfunctioning sensor.
Always assemble the sensor “dry” since the sensing surface can easily be damaged by the solvents used in gasket sealants.
--Yuen Li--
