Oxygen Sensor: Description and Operation

HEATED OXYGEN SENSOR (HO2S) - ZIRCONIA (ZrO2 )




The heated oxygen sensor (HO2S) senses the oxygen concentration in exhaust gas and converts it into a voltage that is sent to the ECM. For Zirconium type sensors, the oxygen sensor outputs about 1V when the air fuel ratio is richer than the theoretical ratio, and outputs about 0V when the ratio is leaner (higher oxygen concentration in exhaust gas). The ECM controls the fuel injection ratio based on this signal so that the air fuel ratio is maintained at the stoichiometric ratio. The oxygen sensor has a heating element that ensures sensor performance during all driving conditions.