Looking to buy an oxygen sensor (also known as the O2 sensor)? You are in luck because we are here to help you out. There are many oxygen sensors (produced by various companies) are out there in the market. As a car owner or Mechanics, it is your duty to find out which one is the best sensor. So we are going to help you out to find the best oxygen sensor/best o2 sensor. In this article, we will talk about the 13 best oxygen sensors that you should buy in 2018-19.
If you don’t want to see the details, just check out the product you are interested in. All the products that we have mentioned are good enough as we have tested all of them. But some products tend to be just a little bit better than others. Bosch 15717 Oxygen Sensor is the type of product that stands out and this the sensor that is our favorite one.
Oxygen sensor location
Where are Oxygen sensors located? That is a common question and, the answer is not too complicated. They are located within the exhaust stream.
Click here to know about How Oxygen Sensor Works and Why It’s Important to Change If they fail
Best oxygen sensor brands:
Oxygen sensors are one of the important parts of a motor vehicle. It is an electronic device that measures the proportion of oxygen in the gas or liquid being analyzed and the device is set in the exhaust manifold of the vehicle to detect how much-unburnt oxygen is there in the exhaust. There are tons of oxygen sensor brands in the market and that’s why to derive the highest benefit, a user must be aware to choose the right one among them. Let’s take a look at some of the best oxygen sensor brands:
Bosch: World Number One German Automotive components Manufacturer
In 1976 Bosch started to produce oxygen sensors. Up to this date they have produced countless oxygen sensors. It was Bosch that originally invented the first-ever oxygen sensor and brought them in the market. That’s why when it comes to oxygen sensors; their name comes up in the mind quite often. Bosch offers a variety of vehicle specific and universal oxygen sensors. If someone doesn’t have a special project such as an entirely custom engine set up, it’s strongly recommended to use an OEM version because it is going to be the easiest to swap in to replace the old sensor. So in a word, Bosch is probably our favorite manufacturer for O2 sensors and, it’s reliable indeed.
Denso: Most Popular automotive components Manufacturer
Denso is well-known as one of the highest-selling spark plugs for cars like Toyota. It has also produced quality oxygen sensors. In case of inconsistent or inaccurate readings that one’s oxygen sensor gives, oxygen sensors from these brands may be perfect for you. It is a perfect brand. With this, a user can monitor the exhaust gas/air-fuel ratio of his car with ease. As such, Denso is one of the best oxygen sensor brands. Hopefully, one will not be disappointed if he chooses to go this route.
Spectra: Rising talented automotive components producer
Spectra Premium is one of the newest brands in the market. Like the other brands, Spectra is also popular for making high-quality O2 sensors for various motor vehicles. Spectra creates their sensors to high standards to make sure that the sensor is functioning properly as per the expectation and requirements of the user. Their sensors are likely to be well packaged and, it is anticipated that their sensors will treat a user well if he decides to purchase one for his vehicle.
ACDelco: Reliable and Safe
We definitely need a top-notch oxygen sensor so that we can monitor the performance of the vehicle engine. If someone is willing to purchase an oxygen sensor that delivers a good service, ACDelco will be a wise and a perfect choice for a number of reasons. First of all, they have a rich history of producing automobile parts. Founded in 1916, ACDelco is an old company that has gone through its ups and downs over the years. And now every year ACDelco parts appear in countless General Motors vehicles. Secondly, they have a good track record at manufacturing oxygen sensors.
NGK: Number One Spark Plug Supplier also produce Quality Sensors
NGK is a premium brand with quality placement parts for motorcars. It’s among the pioneers in the field of oxygen sensors. It’s basically a perfect solution for those who struggle with poor mileage. It provides its user with various advantages for which it is highly recommended. Oxygen sensors of this brand can check the amount of oxygen in one’s car’s exhaust in real-time.
The quality of the components used to make it is good and satisfactory enough. They are abrasion-resistant. This brand gives a 12-month part and labor warranty to its customers. Moreover, it’s available at a reasonable price. Most importantly, it is a durable product which is its major quality. Thus, all its great features have made it one of the most reputable oxygen sensors worldwide.
The brands we have discussed in this article are so far the best oxygen sensor brands in the market. To get the best result, one should buy the updated model or version of an oxygen sensor of any of these brands.
The best oxygen sensors
01.Bosch 15717 Oxygen Sensor
If you are looking to buy an O2 sensor, the Bosch oxygen sensor can be a good choice. Bosch 15717 Oxygen Sensor is one of those convenient sensors that will help your cause.
The place where you install the O2 sensor is not the most favorable place in the world. So if the sensor is not good, it may not last for a long time. You don’t have to worry about it when you buy Bosch oxygen sensor 15717. Its stainless steel body is durable and, it will protect it from contamination.
Installing the sensor is not difficult at all. Coated threads will make it easy for you to install it while some of the other sensors may prove to be a bit difficult to install.
Pros
- Easy installation.
- Submersible design.
- Stainless steel body will protect against contamination.
- Superior durability
Cons
- None
2. ACDelco AFS21 GM Original Equipment Oxygen Sensor
This oxygen sensor will meet your expectations. This sensor has been made in such a way that it fits your GM vehicle. It provides the performance that you hope from General Motors. There is a reason why this sensor is good. It will last for a long time and, the design makes it easy to install. It is reliable and perfect for your vehicle.
Pros:
- Reliable in every sense.
- Durable sensor.
- Installing it is easy.
Cons
- The wire is a bit too long.
3. Bosch 15703 Oxygen Sensor
This sensor is the second product of Bosch in our list of the best oxygen sensors and, it is as good as the first one. If you are unhappy with your oxygen sensor for not giving you the performance you want, Bosch 15703 Oxygen Sensor will come to your rescue. It offers you all the things that you need. What’s not good about it? The protection tube boosts the performance; the stainless steel body makes it durable; installing the sensor is easy. But most importantly, the sensor will operate smoothly.
Pros
- Supreme durability.
- Maximum service life.
- Smooth operation
Cons
- The wire is a bit short.
4. Denso 234-9005 Oxygen Sensor
This brand has made a good name by selling spark plugs for Toyota cars. It is also good at manufacturing qua good oxygen sensors. If you are not happy with your old O2 sensor, you can try this one out. It is a product that accurately monitors the exhaust gas/air-fuel ratio of the car.
If the quality of the sensor is not great, it tends to break down easily. But the Denso oxygen sensor is different. It is a durable product as the materials that made it last longer. Finally, the zirconia solid electrolyte of this sensor makes it super-efficient.
Some sensors may need special tools to install. But this sensor from Denso does not need anything like that. All you have to do is to remove the old sensor from the car and then you just have to click this sensor into place.
Furthermore, the price is not unreasonable. You don’t have to pour money into it.
Pros
- Delivers accurate data
- Affordable price
- Durable
- Easy installation
Cons
- A bit expensive
5. NGK 25013 Oxygen Sensor
NGK is another premium brand when it comes to making sensors for cars. If an OBD2 scan lets you know that your oxygen sensor problems, NGK 25013 can give a solution. Like other oxygen sensors, this sensor will examine the amount of oxygen in your car’s exhaust. If the sensor finds out any abnormality, it gives a signal to the motor car’s computer.
Some oxygen sensors rust or corrode quickly. Some sensors are made of low-quality parts that degrade quickly. But you won’t have to worry about this if you buy NGK 25013. These sensors are corrosion-resistant. The chance for them to degrade is slim.
As we know, installing a sensor can be tricky at times. It can be frustrating for some people. But with NGK 25013, it will not be a problem. The metallic head of the sensor is designed in a way that it bolts into the exhaust manifold.
Pros
- Abrasion-resistant sensor
- Effective.
- Constructed from quality materials.
Cons
- The cost of the product is a bit too much.
6. Denso 234-9009 Oxygen Sensor
If you are looking to buy a versatile and dynamic Oxygen sensor, Denso 234-9009 can be the best choice for you. Its durability is amazing. It’s a fact. It will not break down anytime soon and, you can count on it.
Most Denso Oxygen Sensors don’t have an issue with corrosion and contamination. You can say the same thing about Denso 234-9009 Oxygen Sensor. Its stainless steel helps it to resist corrosion.
Its Porous PTFE Filter lets the Atmospheric Oxygen to Enter the Sensor but does not Permit Water to enter in the Casing.
Denso 234-9009 Oxygen Sensor also features the Aluminum-Oxide trap layer so that it can protect the ceramic from Silicone or lead poisoning.
Pros
- Double protection cover protects the ceramic element.
- No corrosion problem.
- Lasts longer compare to other products
Cons
- None
7. Bosch 15664 Oxygen Sensor
We all know how good Bosch is when it comes to manufacturing the best oxygen sensor. Bosch 15664 Oxygen Sensor is one of those best o2 sensors. It is one of the sensors you can buy if you are thinking about replacing your old sensor.
An O2 sensor must always give correct data. It is the main task of an oxygen sensor. This is where you can rely on Bosch 15664 Oxygen Sensor. You can depend on its performance. Furthermore, it features advanced ceramic technology. It makes sure that the sensor will give you amazing performance and, it will last for a long time. Furthermore, it also has Platinum Power-Grid. For the engine ECU, It produces an accurate voltage signal.
All in all, it is another product you should keep an eye on.
Pros
- Improves fuel economy.
- Advanced ceramic technology for performance.
- Less emission.
- Very affordable for average people.
Cons
- It May not fit all vehicles.
08.Denso 234-9002 Air Fuel Ratio Sensor
Denso 234-9002 Air Fuel Ratio Sensor is another product on our list of the best oxygen sensors. It’s another recommended sensor that is really good at detecting the amount of exhaust gas air and fuel ratio. It’s corrosion-resistant as it is made from durable and quality materials. For that reason, it lasts longer if you compare it to the other oxygen sensor. And of course, the installation process is easy. All in all, you will not be disappointed if you buy this product. It will serve you for a long time.
- Abrasion-resistant.
- Reasonable price.
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Features zirconia solid electrolyte
Cons
- No double layer protection.
09. ACDelco AFS105 GM Original Equipment Heated Oxygen Sensor
ACDelco AFS105 is another oxygen sensor that may catch your eyes. It has some standout features that put it in the best oxygen sensor list. It’s a product that is produced by a trusted company. So you don’t have to think twice before buying it.
In order to optimize emissions and also fuel economy, it detects oxygen in the exhaust gases. Plus, ACDelco AFS105 is renowned for its durability. It is one of the many reasons why this sensor is recommended for you.
Furthermore, the sensor is perfect for most GM vehicles. Its design meets OE specifications and the installation process is not too difficult.
Pros
- Its design meets OE specifications
- Perfect for Gm vehicles.
- Gives precise data
Cons
- Installing it is a little difficult.
10. Bosch 13474 Oxygen Sensor
It’s amazing how various model sensors of the same company can make its way to our best o2 sensor list. This is how good the Bosch brand is. It has produced numerous sensors that are reliable. Bosch 13474 Oxygen Sensor is another just reliable sensor that is manufactured by the Botch Company.
The sensor has similar features to the Bosch 15717 Oxygen Sensor. Protection tube (for performance), stainless steel body (for fighting against contamination), coated threads (for easy installation) – these are the features that make it a top-notch sensor.
Pros
- Reliable product.
- No hassle when it comes to installation
- 100% accurate sensor performance.
Cons
- Not fit for all cars
11. Denso 234-4501 Oxygen Sensor
Another sensor from Denso and, you will love it for sure. There is a reason why it’s here. Every part of it is designed to perfection. The way it’s designed, it can easily detect the amount of oxygen the car has in the exhaust system. Furthermore, like most of Denso’s oxygen sensors, this one is also easy to install. So you don’t have to worry about the installation process. It’s easy and safe. But the best part of the sensor is that it features double-layer protection.
Pros
- Meets OE standards.
- Easy installation.
- Lasts longer.
- Double protection layer.
- Manufactured from top-notch stainless steel
Cons
- None
12. Denso 234-4169 Oxygen Sensor
It’s amazing how Denso produces so many awesome oxygen sensors. Denso 234-4169 Oxygen Sensor is one of those sensors that can accurately spot the amount of oxygen your car has in its exhaust system. It is quite similar to the previous oxygen sensor that we have mentioned. Made from top-quality stainless steel, fluorine rubber, porous polytetrafluoroethylene, high-grade platinum, aluminum oxide, and ceramics, the product also has a double protection layer. It is designed in a way that you don’t have to worry about corrosion. To make it even better, the installation process is not too difficult. So you don’t have anything to worry about.
Pros
- Double protection layer.
- Meets OE standards.
- Ensures longevity.
- Made from top-notch materials. So it lasts longer.
Cons
- None
13. Denso 234-9120 Oxygen Sensor (Air and Fuel Ratio Sensor)
The last sensor on our list of the best oxygen sensors is Denso 234-9120 Oxygen Sensor. A sensor that is produced by Denso is bound to be good. Needless to say, the Denso 234-9120 Oxygen Sensor is also a top-notch product.
Denso 234-9120 features a zirconia solid electrolyte. It is integrated with an alumina heater substrate. As a result, it can control the amount of oxygen concentration that flows into the diffusion layer in order to limit current flow. Furthermore, its durability and easy installation process make it a nifty product
Pros
- Good accuracy.
- Easy installation
- Ensures longevity.
Cons
- Not made of the stainless steel body.
Things to consider when buying an oxygen sensor
If you are a customer, you can’t just go to a shop and buy a random o2 sensor. You may end up wasting your money. So you have to be smart and clever. So we are going to give you some shopping tips for buying oxygen sensors. So here are some things to consider when buying an oxygen sensor-
Brand
Before buying an oxygen sensor, you should check out which company made the product. Check out whether they have a good track record or not. Good companies tend to produce good products as they put their reputation on the line. (It would be better if you use your vehicle manufacturer recommended O2 Sensors) it’s very easy to just see your old one and you have seen the details. Always try to purchase as a match of your old one.
Budget
You should be willing to spend a decent amount of money when you are buying an o2 sensor. Of course, you don’t need to spend a ridiculous amount of money on this. But don’t go for the cheap ones. Cheap sensors are not something you should buy.
Compatibility
Do not buy an O2 sensor that is unsuitable for your vehicle. Your money will be completely wasted. The performance of the sensor will be terrible and when the emission is out of control, it will be a massive problem. To avoid this issue, make sure to check whether the sensor is compatible with your car.
So these are some of the most important things to consider when you are shopping for an oxygen sensor.
Features of a good oxygen sensor
A good O2 sensor has some unique features that make it stand out from an average O2 sensor. If you are wondering about what these features are, we are going to talk about them right here.
So here are some of the features of a good oxygen sensor-
Easy Installation
A good oxygen sensor must be designed in a way that makes it easy to install as well as remove it when it failed. It needs to have an easy installation and removal process.
Lasts longer
Compare to an average Oxygen sensor, a good oxygen sensor will last for a longer period of time.
Durability
A good oxygen sensor is made of durable components. So there is a little doubt about the fact that the sensor itself will be durable. It means that it won’t get damaged easily.
Performance
Eventually, it all comes down to performance. In the end, an oxygen sensor must give supreme performance. What does an oxygen sensor do? The job of an O2 sensor is to scan how much-unburned oxygen is present in the exhaust. If the O2 sensor can’t do it properly, then there is no reason for you to buy it. The bottom line is the performance has to be top-notch.
How to Change an Oxygen Sensor YouTube Video:
FAQs
Question: How much does o2 sensor cost?
Answer: The price varies according to the quality of the sensor. Some sensors cost a lot more while others are relatively cheap. There are sensors that can cost almost 150$. On the other hand, you can buy a sensor that may cost less than 15$. Choose the one that suits you. But it’s better to keep your budget around 70$-100$.
Question: What are the symptoms of a bad oxygen sensor?
Answer: There are some visible symptoms when your oxygen sensor gets damaged. If the sensor is bad, then the car will not run efficiently. Starting the car will not be as smooth as before, the engine will sound rough and the check engine light may come on. You will know that the performance of your engine is decreasing day by day.
Question: Can you clean an oxygen sensor?
Answer: Yes, you can and it’s not the hardest thing in the world. First of all, locate the sensor and then remove it. Use a wrench if necessary. Get a container and put the sensors in it. Then pour gasoline from a gas can. The gasoline should cover the sensors in the fluid. Keep it that way for 6 hours. When it happens, the dirt will go away automatically. A little bit of dirt may remain. You can scrub it to clean it completely. Just take a soft-bristled brush and scrub the sensor lightly. That should do the trick.
Learn More: How to Clean an Oxygen Sensor(wikiHow)
Question: Can I drive without an 02 sensor?
Answer: Although having an oxygen sensor is good for your car and its performance, it will not stop you from driving. Obviously, the performance of your car may somewhat degrade. However, it does not mean that you can’t drive the car. Of course, you may get an occasional yellow check engine light. But that is not gonna prevent you from driving.
Questions: Do I need an o2 sensor?
Answer: It depends on you. It not like you must have an oxygen sensor to drive the car. You can still drive while having a bad oxygen sensor. However, if you want to boost the performance of your car, then it is quite important.
If you want to know more regarding your Car Maintenance, read our more articles:
- Engine Tune-Up Guide
- Most Important Car Maintenance Tips for A Car
- How to Clean a MAF Sensor by Yourself
Final verdict
So this is our list of the best oxygen sensor. They are better than most other sensors in the market. Do not buy cheap o2 sensors. They will get damaged sooner than you expect. So make sure to have a decent budget to buy the best o2 sensor. Click here to know more about car sensors and their functions
