difference between universal and specific lambda sensor?
 

Hello, I need to change the lambda sensorm of my '00 986, it has got only 2 lambda sensor.
I find 2 types of bosch lamba sensor:

- universal: part no.0258986505
- specific: part no. 0258003806

Do you know what is the difference between this two?
I think they has got different conectors, and of course the price, the universal is much cheaper than the specific.

generally, one will have a plug and one will not.

the universal will probably throw a CEL
the specific (if it is a Porsche part) probably will not.
no guarantees on either, however!

the specific and universal are BOSCH parts.

What is CEL?

CEL = Check Engine Light.

I think the only difference is the car specific plug. I run aftermarket wideband sensors in my boxster and just use the programable output to simulate a narrow band sensor. Hasn't thrown a check engine light yet and I cant see how it will.

Sam

Yes, I think the same. One of the 2 lambda sensors that mount my car now, has got a different oem plug, so I think it's probably an universal sensor.

The ECU expects certain signals
 

There are generic sensors, Bosch universal and Bosch with pigtails consisting of wiring and connector plug. The risk of them not working is inverse to that order and the cost is in that order. Better chances = more cost. But you don't have to use/pay for Porsche branded parts, Bosch makes em for Porsche.

More on O2 sensors including part numbers used in US models (no idea what ROW cars use) at https://sites.google.com/site/mikefocke2/oxygensensors.