Outline Of Diagnosis

Detect time-lag of front oxygen (A/F) sensor response. Front oxygen (A/F) sensor cover has some ventilation holes for exhaust gas. Clogged ventilation holes are diagnosed. When the holes are clogged, the A/F output variation becomes slow comparing with the actual A/F variation because oxygen which reaches the zirconia layer is insufficient. Therefore, if the cover has clogged holes, the rich to lean judgment in ECM is delayed when the change from rich to lean is caused. Judge NG when the actual A/F variation is slow comparing with the ECM control amount.

Fig 1: Identifying Front Oxygen (A/F) Sensor - (DTC P0133 O2 Sensor Circuit Slow Response)

Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.