Highlander - Oxygen sensor malfunction...?

mawagner · #1 (**permalink**) 02-14-2007, 08:33 PM

I have an 02 Highlander that had a steady MIL (check engine light) - took it to dealer and got code P0136 (oxygen sensor circuit malfunction - bank 1 sensor 2). I was booked in to replace this weekend, but since then my check engine light has gone out (was on for about 2 weeks total). I remember asking after the diagnostic was done if check engine light would eventually go out and they said it would stay on until I replaced the O2 sensor. The light initially came on in very cold temperature (-30 degrees), so I'm wondering if it was just a 'glitch' and there may be no need to worry about replacing O2 sensor now if light has gone off? Anyone that can provide any info on this? Much appreciated.....

ddvk · #2 (**permalink**) 02-14-2007, 09:40 PM

How many miles does the odometer show?
Usually you should be protected by 8yr/80,000 mile warranty on emissions, check your manual.

I think O2s and cats (for sure) fall under the emission warranty.

mawagner · #3 (**permalink**) 02-15-2007, 07:54 PM

DDVK - I'm at 120k km (metric.... Canada) and you're right, cats are covered to 130k km but warranty info indicates sensors only covered to 60k km (I bought the vehicle with just over 100k km, so hadn't bothered to look at any warranty info thinking nothing is covered beyond 100k). Regardless, I called Toyota and they said if engine light turned itself off then don't worry about it. Awesome - 400 bones stay in my pocket (for now...)! Thanks for your reply.

ddvk · #4 (**permalink**) 02-15-2007, 10:00 PM

The O2 codes will come back and with your mileage 75K miles (120Km), I wouldn't be surprised if the O2s have become lazy or worse off defective.

NGK Spark plug, NGK Spark Plug wire, NGK Platinum Spark plug for High Performance and Racing.

this is a great place to find NGK O2 sensors, they come with end connectors and just easy to install. Good luck and remember you can install them on your own.