How to replace the Oxygen Sensors: 2009-2014 Ford F-150

Watch this video to learn how to replace the oxygen sensors on a 2009-2014 Ford F-150.

Replacing Oxygen Sensors on a 2009-2014 Ford F-150: What You Need

Ready to perform this DIY replacement job? Remember that all the parts in this guide can be found on CarParts.com. Check out all the products that fit your vehicle right here.

Parts Checklist

• Oxygen Sensors

Tightening Torques

• Oxygen sensors: 34 Ft-lbs.

Tools Checklist

Here’s the toolbox we recommend to repair your Ford F-150: HM85 85 Piece Ratchet and Socket Set

List of tools:

• Hydraulic jack
• Jack stands
• 22mm wrench
• Torque wrench

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Warm Up Your Vehicle

• Start your vehicle and allow it to warm up. This makes removing the oxygen sensors easier and prevents damage during removal.

Step 2: Ensure Safety

• Be cautious of hot components to avoid burning yourself during the process.

Step 3: Prepare for Work

• Turn off your vehicle’s ignition and set the parking brake.
• Pull the hood release handle and open the hood.

Step 4: Disconnect Battery

• As a safety precaution, disconnect the vehicle’s battery.

Step 5: Lift the Vehicle

• Use a jack to raise the front of your vehicle to a suitable height, allowing easy access to the oxygen sensors.

Step 6: Secure the Vehicle

• Place jack stands under the vehicle to ensure stability while working.

Step 7: Locate Oxygen Sensors

• Locate the oxygen sensors. In this case, there are four sensors on the catalytic converters: two upstream and two downstream.

Step 8: Remove Damaged Sensor

• Follow the electrical lead from the damaged oxygen sensor to the connector.
• Disconnect the electrical connector by pressing the retaining tab and pulling the terminal.
• Use a 22-millimeter wrench to unscrew the oxygen sensor from the catalytic converter.
• Finish unscrewing by hand and then remove the sensor.

Step 9: Install New Oxygen Sensor

• Prepare the new oxygen sensor by removing any protective covering.
• Place the new sensor on the catalytic converter and screw it in using the wrench.
• Use a torque wrench to ensure proper tightening.

Step 10: Reconnect the Oxygen Sensor

• Reconnect the electrical connector to the new oxygen sensor.

Step 11: Secure the Wiring

• Place the sensor cable on its support to prevent the boot from melting and to allow the sensor to function correctly.

Step 12: Lower the Vehicle

• Carefully lower your vehicle from the jack stands.

Step 13: Reconnect Battery

• Reconnect the vehicle’s battery.

Compatible Vehicles

The operation and tools displayed in the video should be available on the following vehicles:

• 2009 Ford F150
• 2010 Ford F150
• 2011 Ford F150
• 2012 Ford F150
• 2013 Ford F150
• 2014 Ford F150

Why Is It Important to Replace a Bad Oxygen Sensor ASAP?

Don’t hold off on replacing a bad oxygen sensor. Neglecting to do so means you increase the likelihood of dealing with various engine problems. For example, you might have to deal with reduced fuel efficiency, stalling and misfiring, and foul smells in your vehicle.

Reduced Fuel Efficiency

One of the biggest problems that comes from a bad oxygen sensor is increased fuel consumption. This is because your vehicle will have a much more difficult time balancing the mixture of air and fuel, leading to overly rich air-fuel mixtures and wasted fuel. On top of that, this can lead to complications with the catalytic converter, making it fail and in some cases, overheat.

Engine Problems

Failing to replace a bad oxygen sensor leads to complications with your vehicle’s engine. You might experience issues with stalling, rough running, and misfiring. You might also experience a loss of power when driving, making for a less pleasant and less stable driving experience.

Foul Sulfurous Smell

Another problem you might experience if you fail to replace a bad oxygen sensor is the smell of rotten eggs in your engine. This problem also makes the smoke that comes out of your exhaust thicker and darker — this is what happens when the air/fuel ratio is imbalanced and your engine runs rich.

Important Reminders

We advise you to start your vehicle and let it warm up.

Raise the front of your vehicle quite high, which will give you easier access to the oxygen sensors.

Disclaimer:

This video is for entertainment purposes only. Carparts.com, Inc. disclaims all damages including, but not limited to, actual, consequential, and/or punitive, for any liability, claim, or any other injury or cause related to or arising from any information or lack thereof posted in this video. No information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. All mechanical car projects entail some risk. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to assume this risk. If you are in doubt, please consult a licensed mechanic in your area.