Oxygen Sensor replacement - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

Petermark1972 · 08-25-2011, 02:28 AM

Hi guys, couple of questions for you. My 01 Boxster is showing up as a P1275 code which seems to be one of my oxygen sensors.
First question is: If I don't replace it just yet will it do any long term damage?
Second question: Is it a simple enough job to do myself? Baring in mind that I haven't done any mechanicing in some time...
All thoughts and suggestions as always much appreciated
Pete

Frodo · 08-25-2011, 04:28 AM

Somebody smarter than me can answer the first question better than I could---I would just think the engine's not going to run as efficiently as it will if you change out the bad O2 sensor. Might affect mileage and performance I would think.

As far as changing it out, it's not that tough. As I recall, you have to contort yourself a little to get to it, but other than that it's basically wrenchin' it out and wrenchin' the new one back in. Easy.

Lordblood · 08-25-2011, 09:24 PM

Changing the Oxygen Sensors was the easiest thing I did on my Boxster, perhaps other than changing the MAF. DON'T GET A DEALER/INDY TO DO IT. Even the best indy shops in my town charged way too much for them. Shop around online and you will get a good deal, I got Bosch ones to be safe since they are OEM.

If you want some directions and photos to help you navigate through the procedure, just do a quick Google search and you will find plenty of guides.

JFP in PA · 08-26-2011, 06:03 AM

The biggest potential downside to running with a possible bad O2 senor is that the air fuel ratio may be off as the result and damage the cats on that side over time. As cats cost one Hell of lot more than O2 sensors, the trade off is obvious…..

Petermark1972 · 08-26-2011, 06:13 AM

Thanks for all the tips 'and encouragement'. Think I will tackle that one myself and let you know how I get on.

RandallNeighbour · 08-26-2011, 07:56 AM

Get a cheap sensor wrench socket. Makes the job far easier.

Lobo1186 · 08-26-2011, 11:28 AM

I ran mine with a bad MAF and or O2 sensor for a long time. It ended up causing my car to misfire. Replaced MAF and the generic bosch O2 sensors so I could increase the wire length and it has been running great for a couple thousand miles since.