Q: 2010 Ford F150 I keep getting a code for oxygen sensor about once every 10 days. Does that mean it is on the verge of going bad?

asked by on July 23, 2017

Have a 2010 Ford F-150 that I've started getting a code for oxygen sensor and it happens about once every 10 days. I reset it it doesn't come back immediately gas mileage doesn't seem to be affected, performance doesn't seem to be affected. Does this intermittent code signal bats one of the oxygen sensors is getting ready to go bad?

My car has 54311 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Check Engine Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

A code to one of the 4 O2 sensors does not always mean the sensor is bad or going bad. It could be another problem with the fuel system or intake system causing the code. You did not give us the code you get but it would help to narrow the problem down since there are about 10 different possible codes that it could be and will lean toward a different problem for each one. Have a pinpoint test done for the code or codes you get next time and a fix may be found.

Hi there. Typically when this occurs, it’s due to a bad connection to the O2 sensors. The most common source is when the electrical harness that is connected to the oxygen sensors becomes loose due to wear and tear and intensive heat, as it’s next to the exhaust manifold. I would recommend checking the harness to see if it’s showing signs of wear and tear and replace if needed. Otherwise, it would be a good idea to have a professional mechanic come to your location and complete a check engine light inspection, so they can determine why this is happening.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Keyhole damaged after attempted break in.
I would recommend having your door handle/lock assembly replaced (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/exterior-door-handle-replacement) by a professional. Most door locks are integrated into the outer door handle but if yours is not than the lock itself is all that will be needed. The technician...
What does the Service Tire Monitor System message mean?
The Service Tire Monitor System message can appear on the driver information center (DIC). The DIC displays this alert when it detects an issue with the tire pressure monitor system (TPMS). When the TPMS issue is resolved, the alert will...
Lamp out in taillight.
Although a lamp may look fine sometimes, a tiny break in the filament that is not quite visible can cause failure. The most accurate way to test a bulb is with a dvom/multimeter set to read ohms and measuring resistance...
Warning lights coming on, but then go off
Something in your anti-lock braking system is at fault. The fault may be anything from a sensor to a computer. Diagnosis is required (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/abs-light-is-on-inspection) with a scan tool to help determine the issue. A qualified technician, such as one from...
Seized lock cylinder
Hi there, thanks for writing in. First off, you don't need to go to a VW shop or the dealership to have an ignition lock cylinder replaced (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-replace-an-ignition-lock-cylinder-by-timothy-charlet). As a matter of fact, one of our professional mechanics can complete...
was running in idle. went to reverse and it died. i turned it back on and it seemed to shake.
Hello. If the vehicle is turning off and idling rough then there is a problem with the powertrain. It can be an issue with the throttle body or possibly an issue with one of the engine sensors. I usually check...
Car struggles to accelerate
This may be a sign of a clogged catalytic converter. As you may already know, the catalytic converter converts toxic exhaust gases into less harmful pollutants that are suitable to be expelled into the atmosphere. When this is clogged, this...
Panic buttons is working but alarms is not. How do I turn it on? From toyota corolla 2016
You are most likely not having an issue with the alarm. The system is designed to not arm itself until a certain amount of time after you lock all doors. The system will disable the ignition and activate after about...

Related articles

Can Sensors Be Cleaned or Do They Need to Be Replaced?
In In most cases, sensors for your automobile will need to be replaced if they fail, but depending on the type of sensor and its location or function, some can be cleaned and reused (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/can-sensors-be-cleaned-or-do-they-need-to-be-replaced). Sensors can come in many...
The Best Used Cars to Buy for Highway Driving
Do Do you spend hours each week on the highway for work? Maybe you just live in a very rural area and have to drive for 30 or 45 minutes to get to the grocery store. Whatever the case, your...
Top 10 Best-Selling Cars of 2016
Ford F-series pickup trucks, Toyota Camry, and Honda Civic are some of the best-selling cars of 2016 and all deliver on reliability and efficiency.