Modern Chevrolet Niva cars, mass-produced since 2002, are equipped with a fuel injection system controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU). Since environmental requirements for vehicle exhaust gases are gradually increasing in the Russian Federation, manufacturers are installing catalysts and oxygen sensors (lambda probes) at the engine outlet. The latter help in adjusting the air-fuel mixture ratio, bringing emissions closer to the minimum content of carcinogenic substances.
The main symptoms of a malfunctioning lambda probe
Among the signs that allow you to determine in advance whether the probe is working or not are the following:
- The appearance of instability during engine operation (the engine begins to rapidly gain speed and also stalls sharply);
- Deterioration in the quality of the fuel mixture pumped by air into the cylinder system (this leads to excessive consumption of fuel);
- Uncontrolled and ineffective fuel supply (malfunctions in the operation of the engine and electronic system of the machine);
- Gradual appearance of intermittency in engine operation at idle speed;
- Reduced engine efficiency at maximum speed;
- Problems in the operation of electronic systems (faults in the sensor lead to unstable operation of the engine compartments, since the fault signal is transmitted with a delay);
- The presence of periodic “twitching” of the car;
- The appearance of strange pops when the engine is running;
- Untimely (slow) response of vehicle engine systems to pressing the accelerator pedal;
- The appearance of a constantly flashing light indicating a sensor malfunction on the central instrument panel.
If you find one or more of these reasons in your vehicle, you should consider replacing this device.
How is the sensor checked?
The service life of the sensor depends on the type of device and starts from 50,000 km for unheated, 100,000 for heated and 160,000 km for sliding. If the first problems occur, you can check the status of the device.
Visual assessment:
- The presence of soot affects the transmission of signals to the control unit. The reason is overheating, increased oxygen content in the fuel mixture.
- The formation of whitish and grayish deposits indicates a large amount of additives in the fuel, which affects the performance of the unit.
- The sparkling beads suggest that the fuel has increased the amount of lead particles.
To determine effectiveness and obtain accurate information, professionals use special equipment. If it is not possible to contact a car service center, it is enough to clarify how to check the lambda probe with a multimeter. It's easy to do it yourself.
Basic steps:
- The engine gradually warms up to 75 degrees.
- Monitor the gradual increase in speed up to 3000, holding the readings for 3 minutes. This is necessary to warm up the sensor.
- Taking a multimeter, the signal cable is connected to the testing device. We attach the second wire to the ground. During normal operation of the sensor, the multimeter readings remain in the range of 0.2 - 1 Volt.
- During testing, the data should change constantly: when you press the accelerator pedal, it should approach 1 Volt, and when you release it, it should drop quickly.
When thinking about how to check the lambda probe, it is taken into account that if the readings of the device do not change during the process, a voltage of 0.5 volts remains when the gas is ignited, the unit is probably faulty. If the data is zero, you must ensure that the sensor is grounded. It is recommended to check the integrity and functionality of the wiring leading to the ignition switch and relay.
Advantages of using a car service
In a car service center, diagnostics are carried out using an electronic oscilloscope. It is recommended to do this after 30,000 km, which will avoid unexpected breakdowns. To check the lambda probe of the oxygen sensor, specialists observe several important points.
Car service check:
- The sensor heats up to 300 - 400 degrees for normal operation and measurement of residual oxygen.
- Thus, the electrolyte in the device design becomes conductive, and differences in the amount of atmosphere and oxygen in the exhaust determine the appearance of the output voltage.
- By pulling out the plug, determine the resistance of the heating element. The sensor should stay within 2-14 ohms.
- The voltage supplied to the heater is estimated. The optimal option is 10.5 ohms. The test is performed with the panel inserted and the sensor connector connected.
The advantage of turning to wizards is the accuracy of determining not only the health, but also the state of the element.
Where is the oxygen sensor located?
The main purpose of the DC is to assess the quantitative oxygen content in the exhaust gases and send data to the electronic control unit. The latter, based on the analysis, adjusts the position of the ignition angle. Thus, the combustible mixture becomes enriched and depleted.
Systematic operation, low-quality fuel, high temperature conditions are the main factors for premature failure of the mechanism.
The replacement process is not at all complicated, but requires care on the part of the repairman. However, here too, not many car owners are ready to buy original spare parts, preferring cheaper analogues.
To prevent the electronic control unit from identifying a system error, the lambda probe is replaced with one of the following types of decoys:
- Mechanical;
- Electronic.
On Chevrolet Niva models up to 1995. The controller is installed on the metal body of the exhaust manifold. The second generation Chevrolet Niva (after 1995) is equipped with two DCs: diagnostic and control.
The first is located in the exhaust manifold housing, the second is after the manifold coupling.
Access to equipment for preventive maintenance from under the bottom of the car, as well as through the top of the engine compartment.
The average service life of the recreation center is 80 – 110 thousand km. depending on the driver's compliance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
The symptoms are in many ways similar to other breakdowns, so it is important to correctly identify the breakdown at the initial stage.
- Difficulty starting the engine “cold” or “hot”;
- Increased fuel consumption;
- Power reduction;
- Passive acceleration dynamics;
- The engine is not running properly;
- An indicator on the instrument panel indicates the presence of system errors in the electronic control unit;
- Periodic shooting sounds are heard from the exhaust pipe, which indicates an enrichment (leanness) of the combustible mixture;
- Blue, gray, black smoke from the exhaust pipe.
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If one or more signs are detected, immediately contact a service station specialist for a comprehensive diagnosis.
- We install the machine on the inspection channel (pit);
- We turn off the engine, open the hood;
- We wait until the exhaust system cools down to a safe temperature so as not to damage the skin of the hands;
- Remove the limit switches;
- Use the key to “17” to unscrew the sensor;
- We screw in the DC, put on the terminals;
- We start the engine and check the functionality.
DIY replacement completed.
What is an oxygen concentration sensor used for?
In practice, many vehicle owners are not even aware of the existence of this element. Its purpose is to determine the oxygen concentration in the exhaust gases and subsequently transmit this information to the ECU. Based on this, according to the algorithms embedded in the system’s memory, the fuel-air mixture is corrected for its complete combustion in the cylinders of the power unit.
The location of the oxygen sensor is the exhaust manifold. On most models, the lambda is mounted directly in the area of the catalytic converter. Regardless of where the sensor is installed, the correctness of its readings and system performance will not be affected. There are two types of lambda probe:
Note that the second type is included in the design of older vehicle models that were produced before the 90s. All modern models have a broadband lambda, which accurately records all deviations to ensure the most correct mixture formation. At the same time, a properly functioning sensor of such a system can actually reduce fuel consumption and ensure optimal crankshaft speed of the power unit.
Do-it-yourself controller diagnostics on a Chevrolet Niva
To check the equipment we use a multimeter. Most motorists have the device in their garage. The sequence of actions is as follows:
- We place the car above the inspection hole;
- Remove the limit switches;
- Connect the multimeter terminals;
- We activate the device to the “Resistance measurement” position;
- We analyze the received data.
If the arrow tends to infinity, the lambda probe is working; if the arrow drops to zero, the part is damaged. Remember that the controller is non-separable and cannot be prevented.
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Detailed problem definition
Common symptoms of a faulty lambda probe include the following:
- increased fuel consumption;
- jolts while driving;
- a sharp decrease in the power of the power unit;
- unstable minimum;
- the appearance of a strong toxic odor in car exhaust gases.
It should be emphasized that the above signals are not always the result of a malfunction of the oxygen concentration sensor. If these symptoms are detected, it is necessary to thoroughly check the lambda probe. Let's take a closer look at this process.
Repair or replace the lambda probe?
Just like replacing a fuel pump on a VAZ-2110, repairing a lambda sensor should be carried out at a car service center. However, in most cases, this spare part is completely replaced, since it simply cannot be repaired further. The problem is the high cost of original sensors from an official dealer.
As a result, most motorists decide to switch to using a universal sensor, which is suitable for almost any make of car and costs much less than its original counterparts. In addition, if you want to save money, you can purchase a lambda probe from disassembly. These are used sensors, but they may have a long warranty period. You can also immediately purchase a full-fledged model of the exhaust manifold, in which a lambda probe is already installed.
If the problem is only a small error in the operation of the sensor, you can quickly fix it yourself. The main symptoms of a malfunction are associated with its severe contamination when fuel combustion products settle. In order to understand whether the tightening of the cylinder head bolts affected the operation of the probe or not, you just need to show it to specialists at an auto center.
To dismantle the lambda probe, you will need to first warm up its surface to a maximum of 60 degrees. Then carefully remove it and additionally take out the protective cap. After this, you can begin cleaning with orthophosphoric acid, which helps to easily deal with any (even the most persistent) flammable deposits.
Warming up the surface of the lambda probe
Lambda probe device
At the end of cleaning the sensor, it is necessary to soak the spare part. To do this, you can use products for flushing the engine cooling system or just clean water. At the end of the work, be sure to dry the sensor and install it in its proper place.
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Results and conclusions
If you care about your car, then when the first signs of malfunction of the lambda probe appear, you need to check it and, if necessary, replace it with a new one. To save money, you can purchase a used oxygen sensor or a non-original analogue.
The exhaust system of vehicles has changed significantly over the past few years; several additional elements have appeared in its design that allow vehicles to be operated without violating International environmental standards.
For example, one of these elements is an oxygen sensor, the signs of malfunction of which should be known to every car owner. We will consider in detail the purpose, design features and common malfunctions of the lambda probe in this publication.
What and how can you check the lambda?
To check, you will need a digital voltmeter (preferably an analog voltmeter, since its “sampling” time is much shorter than that of a digital one) and an oscilloscope, if possible, the measurements will be more accurate. Before checking, you should warm up the car since lambda operates correctly at temperatures above 300C°.
We start the engine, do not disconnect the lambda connector. We connect the negative probe of the voltmeter (ordinary gauge) to the car body. We “poke” the positive probe on each wire contact and observe the voltmeter reading. When the positive heater wire is detected, the voltmeter should show a constant 12 V.
Engine operating principle
Detonation often occurs when going uphill. At the same time, the car moves slowly, and the speed is too high. But there is no need to worry, because this phenomenon is called glow ignition, it does not indicate that the engine is not working correctly.
Any gasoline engine operates on the following principles:
- A mixture of gasoline and air is supplied to the combustion chamber of the cylinders, where it is ignited using a spark from the spark plug. Moreover, the piston should be almost a few millimeters from top dead center. When the piston reaches the top position, the greatest pressure appears in the cylinder. In this case, the entire fuel-air mixture will burn one hundred percent.
- During normal operation of the knock sensor
on
a Chevrolet Niva,
signs of this phenomenon will not appear. > myth device will help get rid of the manifestation of detonation. And it occurs when the mixture begins to ignite, much more than 30 years later than expected. Typically this happens halfway to top dead center. And when the fuel-air mixture burns, the upper part of the piston will be affected by a force that pushes it in the opposite direction. Here the engine power decreases, and significantly, and its parts wear out.
KEY-DOP
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Where can I buy
Spare parts and other products for the car are easily available for purchase at auto stores in your city. But there is another option that has recently received significant improvements. You no longer need to wait a long time for a parcel from China: the AliExpress online store now offers the opportunity to ship from transshipment warehouses located in various countries. For example, when ordering, you can specify the “Delivery from the Russian Federation” option.
Follow the links and choose:
Lambda oxygen sensor for Lada, Niva, Samara, Kalina, Priora, UAZ, Chevrolet | Car diagnostic scanner Elm327 V1.5 for Niva | Adapter for LED car lamps T10,T20,1156,1157,B9S |
ALLSOME HT1190 Brake Fluid Hand Pump Liner Tools Vacuum Gun | VC100 film thickness gauge, paint | Pressure gauge for fuel pump, 0-140 PSI |
Electric snag
The emulator has a microprocessor that corrects the signal for the ECU. The latter “believes” that the sensor is working and passes the data without interpreting it as an error.
In fact, there is no longer a catalyst in the design; instead, a section of the exhaust pipe is welded in.
The cost of the emulator varies from 1,500 rubles, which is 85–90% of the price of a new recreation center. Unlike a standard controller, the emulator has an unlimited service life.
Catalog article/marking | Price in rubles |
BOSCH Euro III, up to car 0258005133 | From 1800 |
After catalyst 0258045197 | From 1800 |
Fion | From 1400 - 1500 |
ZVT | From 1400 - 1500 |
Krayd | From 1400 - 1500 |
HW-QNT | From 1400 - 1500 |
Metal spacer | 250-330 |
Electronic emulator | From 1600 |
*prices are as of May 2022 |
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Error P0036
Deciphering the P0036 Code
P0036 – HO2S Heater Control Circuit Error (Bank 1, Sensor 2)
What does error code P0036 mean?
For normal engine operation, it is necessary that the exhaust gases have an air-to-fuel ratio of 14.7 to 1. It is this parameter that is determined using oxygen sensors (HO2S Bank 1, Sensor 2), which measure the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases. This information is then sent to the engine control module (ECM) to regulate the fuel supplied to the engine. Error P0036 indicates improper operation of the oxygen sensor (lambda probe).
An oxygen sensor heater is necessary for the lambda probe to respond very quickly to changes in parameters. Helps reduce harmful emissions, especially during startup and when the engine is cold.
What Causes Code P0036
If the error code is cleared and reset, but returns after starting the engine, it means that the HO2S sensor is not sending the appropriate signals to the ECM (engine control module).
The cause may be defective wiring, sensor or control unit (rare).
What are the symptoms of code P0036
The Check Engine light is on.
In the case of a malfunctioning heater circuit, the oxygen sensor will not correctly measure oxygen in the exhaust gases during the first 3-5 minutes of engine operation.
The lack of data from the lambda probe affects the ECM's ability to control the fuel mixture; it will be calculated using fixed parameters (usually overestimated) until the problem is corrected.
How to diagnose error code P0036
Error P0036 is diagnosed by an OBD-II scanner. The mechanic resets the OBD-II error code and then drives the vehicle to see if the error returns. If error P0036 comes on again, you need to check both the power and ground to the sensor, and also make sure that the wiring is intact.
Many lambda probe wiring problems are related to high exhaust gas temperatures.
Common mistakes when diagnosing code P0036
There is no need to immediately think that the oxygen sensor is faulty. Before replacing it, you need to make sure that the wiring and connectors are in good condition. Make sure there is 12 volt power. And only after that change the sensor.
How serious is P0036?
If the ECM receives a P0036 error, the Check Engine light on the instrument panel will come on. With this error, the car can drive safely, but it is necessary to go for diagnostics as soon as possible to make sure that there are no problems other than increased fuel consumption. If you constantly use a car with such a malfunction, the catalyst may fail in the near future. The engine will run on a super-enriched mixture, the unburned residues of which, when entering the catalyst, disable it.
Additional comments about P0036
Many cars with over 100,000 miles have momentary problems with oxygen sensors, which usually occur during engine starting or during prolonged use. If the Check Engine light comes on and the vehicle is running normally, the OBD-II system can be reset using a scan tool and the problem may not reoccur. That's why it's important to clear errors and test the car before starting repairs.
This topic has 5 replies, 4 voices, and was last updated.
Oleg 2 years ago.
Help, the check light came on, connected to the ECU, error P0036-H2OS Heater Control Circuit (Bank 1 Sensor 2), I erase the error but it appears again.
Hello, make some logs and post them on the forum, I’m afraid the oxygen pump isn’t working, maybe the electrical circuit to it is broken...
Hello guys! Yes, most likely there is a problem in the DK2 heating circuit (oxygen sensor after the catalyst).
It is necessary to remove fuse ef21, remove the block from the ECU and measure the resistance between the contact where the fuse was located and pin 16 of the ECU block. It should be between 3 and 35 ohms.
Detailed diagnostics
How to check the lambda probe (oxygen sensor) with your own hands? You can do this in two ways:
- Visually.
- Using a multimeter.
Let's look at the first method first. So, first we remove the connector from the lambda probe. We examine all contacts. The wires must not be broken or damaged. If the contacts do not fit tightly against each other, this issue needs to be corrected. Next, we check the oxygen sensor itself. A Priora, the signs of a sensor malfunction may include the presence of soot, must be urgently repaired.
This is due to the combustion of a rich fuel mixture. Because of this, the device becomes dirty and cannot quickly respond to all changes. If there are shiny deposits (this is lead), the oxygen sensor is replaced. Lead damages both the probe itself and the catalyst. What are the signs of a bad oxygen sensor? The presence of lead indicates the use of excess fuel additives or low-quality motor oil.
What are the symptoms of P0036?
When this error occurs, the Check Engine light on the vehicle's dashboard will light up, indicating a malfunction. The engine control module (ECM) may place the vehicle in limp mode until the problem is corrected. If the oxygen sensor heater fails, the vehicle's ECM may not receive feedback from the oxygen sensor for the first 2 to 5 minutes of engine operation. This will cause the ECM to be unable to adjust the engine's air/fuel ratio properly until the problem is corrected.
How to identify the problem?
Let's look at possible signs of a malfunctioning oxygen sensor:
- Increased fuel consumption.
- Jerking when moving.
- Noticeable drop in power.
- Unstable engine operation at idle.
- Increased toxicity of exhaust gases.
Note that these symptoms do not always occur specifically because of the oxygen sensor.
Therefore, having identified one of the above symptoms, we proceed to a more detailed check of the device. We'll look at how to do this below.
Diagnostics with a multimeter
How to check a lambda probe (oxygen sensor) with a multimeter? To do this, we need to connect the signal wire from the oxygen probe connector to our measuring device. Next, we start the engine and keep the speed around 2.5 thousand. Let's release the gas pedal. We pull out the vacuum tube from the fuel regulator and look at the readings of the device.
If the voltage is less than 0.8 V (or absent at all), signs of a malfunction of the oxygen sensor have been confirmed. There is no point in repairing it. Due to the design features, the element can only be replaced. The cost of this element ranges from two to three thousand rubles for VAZ cars. How to change the oxygen sensor yourself, see below.