Quote:
Originally Posted by cpander2
i have a 2004 ford ranger that is getting around 11-15 MPG. It has the 4.0. I have a check engine light on and it says it is the 02 sensor. Would this make it hard on gas? What would help it? I know that i am not going to get great but i would like for it to improve.
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The O2 sensor affects gas mileage by helping the engine management adjust fuel to unburned oxygen from the exhaust. The signal from the O2 sensor tells the computer if the fuel mixture is burning rich (less oxygen) or lean (more oxygen).
When no signal is received from the O2 sensor, like when a cold engine is first started the 02 sensor fails, the computer orders a steady, rich fuel mixture. This is referred to as "open loop" operation because no input is used from the O2 sensor to fine tune the fuel mixture. If the engine fails to go into closed loop when the O2 sensor reaches operating temperature, or drops out of closed loop because the O2 sensor's signal is lost, the engine will run too rich causing an increase in fuel consumption and emissions; that will set a code and turn on your check engine light.
I didnt catch where you're from but I am sure if you stop at any local Autoparts store chain, Autozone, Oriellys, Car quest, or even Pep Boys will scan your truck for free with an OBD II Scan tool.
Depending on how you feel about repairs, you could replace just the damaged sensor(s) or replace them all just because of the fact its a 16 yr old truck and preventative maintenance line of thinking would likely insure you'd get another 16 years out of it.
Purchase your sensor(s) and follow this for your 4.0
How-To: Oxygen Sensor replacement