Oxygen Sensors are becoming more and more advanced, as manufacturers improve processes and materials for superior engine monitoring. High performance applications often utilize a wideband oxygen sensor, or multiple oxygen sensors to maximize engine control.
These sensors are also known as 02 sensors, and they constantly check the exhaust gases leaving your engine to see how your engine is running. An overly lean or rich condition can lead to a OBDII trouble code, which will result in your Malfunction Indicator Lamp being activated. This check engine code can be problematic and annoying.
Today we are showing you how to replace a Honda Accord oxygen sensor in a 2002 Honda Accord VTEC SOHC 4 cylinder F22A4. The part number for this upstream oxygen sensor is Honda 36531-PAA-307 or 36531-PAA-L21. There’s also a few other numbers you can interchage with the Honda Accord part number, these are 36531-PAA-L22 or 36531-PAA-L23.
Where is my Honda Accord Oxygen Sensor Located?
The upstream oxygen sensor is located in the exhaust headers, screwed into the primary exhaust collector of your F23. To locate your 02 sensor, open your hood and take a look at the front of your engine and header assembly.
This upstream 02 sensor is causing a lazy oxygen sensor issue, and triggering the P0171 trouble code in this 2002 Honda Accord. The downstream unit is screwed into the exhaust pipe after the catalytic converter. If one of your Honda 02 sensors is faulty, it’s best that you don’t drive the vehicle until you get this oxygen sensor replaced.
If your check engine light is on, you will not be able to pass any emissions tests in your state, if applicable.
Because our DTC trouble code is causing a Bank 0 or Bank 1 lean condition, we need to replace the front 02 sensor. We’ll be showing you how to Replace a Honda Accord Oxygen Sensor starting with the wiring harness first.
How to Unplug your Honda Accord Oxygen Sensor
To find the Honda Accord oxygen sensor connector, look along the area where the transmission meets the engine. There should be a metal clip located on the 17mm bolt that runs through the transmission bell housing.
Push up on this plastic tab, which will allow you to remove the wiring harness from the transmission bracket. Once the oxygen sensor connector is removed, you can unplug the front 02 sensor by depressing the retaining clip.
With the 02 sensor unplugged, you can now unscrew the primary upstream 02 sensor using a oxygen sensor tool. As you begin to screw in the new replacement Honda Accord oxygen sensor, make sure to lightly treat the threads of the 02 sensor with anti-seize.
That does it for our How To Replace a Honda Accord Oxygen Sensor article, if you have any questions or comments regarding this guide please leave them for us below!