I know its not a ford question, but does anyone know if lambda sensors on imported scoobies are any different to uk spec?

My mate has an imported STi 1 and it's just failed an MOT with a reading of 0.8% when it should be 0.2% the garage are coming up with all the spool about getting one in from Japan and all that cr@p!

anyone got any ideas to why this could be so high, could it be the cat if it's not the lambda?

 

try www.lambdasensor.com

I don't see any reason they can't get an equivalent (sp) from a Bosch dealer or something, even the local Sabaru dealer will probably stock them.

I would guess its the cat first.

 

Could certainly be the Cat.
Has it even got one?

Could even be the engine was slightly too cool or the fans were on etc...

 

They are different on imports and cost around £300...... in stock if you need 1

 

the only difference could be the thread size, number of wires or connector type. if you're prepared to do a bit of work, more or less any universal type can be fitted.

 

Cheers guys

Stu could you explain how the engine being too cool or the fans being on would affect this cos i haven't got a clue about how these sensors work? Could they be tested in anyway to check that its working?

I'm pretty sure it's got a cat but not definate, its on an L plate.

 

I have had this - the cat needs to be up to temp to work properly - get him to take it for a good ragging, and then check it again.

 

Cats bacame mandatory on K plates if i recall correctly.

Most cars will have a air and water temp compensation.

If the engine is too cool it will give extra fuel, same as a choke.
If the engine is to hot it will give extra fuel as the fuel will help cool the intake and cylinders.

Fans running can draw power from other components such as injectors, coils etc and can affect the running of the car.
Most cars when the fans cut in will "skip a beat" this is due to the power being taken by the fans and the spark etc not being as strong as it should be.

Matt.

 

Thanks St3V3_C and zvhturbo

 

A performance catalyst does not work fully until its at a very serious temperature. This temperature is rarely attained without 10miles driving.

If the engine is tested below operating temperature (Illegal but hey..) the Vehicle may not be locked fully into closed loop operation as happens around 88-92 degrees C in most management programs.

The test shouldnt be done with fans running for reasons stated earlier...