Oxygen Sensor: Description and Operation

HEATED OXYGEN SENSOR (HO2S)

Typical Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S):

The HO2S detects the presence of oxygen in the exhaust and produces a variable voltage according to the amount of oxygen detected. A high concentration of oxygen (lean air/fuel ratio) in the exhaust produces a voltage signal less than 0.4 volt. A low concentration of oxygen (rich air/fuel ratio) produces a voltage signal greater than 0.6 volt. The HO2S provides feedback to the PCM indicating air/fuel ratio in order to achieve a near stoichiometric air/fuel ratio of 14.7:1 during closed loop engine operation. The HO2S generates a voltage between 0.0 and 1.1 volts.

Embedded with the sensing element is the HO2S heater. The heating element heats the sensor to temperatures of 800°C (1,400°F). At approximately 300°C (600°F) the engine can enter closed loop operation. The VPWR circuit supplies voltage to the heater and the PCM turns on the heater by providing the ground when the proper conditions occur. The heater allows the engine to enter closed loop operation sooner. The use of this heater requires that the HO2S heater control be duty cycled to prevent damage to the heater.