O2 Sensor Replacement (Bank 2 Sensor 1)

Materials Required

  • BMW OBD2 Scan Tool
  • E8 Socket
  • 8MM Socket
  • 10MM Socket
  • Offset O2 Sensor Wrench
  • Ratchet
  • Antiseize (recommended)
  • BMW Scan Tool (recommended)

Start w/ Cold Engine

Ensure you conduct this DIY on a vehicle with a cold engine.

Scan For Error Codes

Using a BMW capable scan tool, scan for engine codes. If all of your O2 Sensors are showing bad at once, this DIY guide should fix your issue.

Codes: P0031 P0037 P0051 P0057

Disconnect Battery

Disconnect the vehicle's battery to ensure safety while conducting this job.

Open Hood

Open your vehicle's hood by pulling the latch.

Remove Cabin Air Filter Cowl

Remove the cabin air filter, HVAC cowl and all covers in the way of accessing the ECU. You should only need an 8MM socket for this.

Remove Engine Cover

Remove the engine cover by removing the three screws that secure the it.

NOTE

The oxygen sensor being replaced it tucked underneath this metal bracket.

NOTE

The bracket is held in place by two very small E8 screws.

Loosen Metal Bracket

Loosen the metal bracket by removing the two E8 screws holding it in place.

Remove Bracket

With the bracket screws removed, simply wiggle the bracket free from the engine bay.

NOTE

An offset O2 sensor wrench is highly recommended, due to the tight working area.

Fit Wrench Over Sensor

Fit the offset O2 sensor wrench over the sensor by feeding the wiring through the open slit on the wrench.

Loosen Sensor

Using a ratchet, loosen the O2 sensor by turning counter-clockwise until it's fully freed from the engine.

Unplug Connector

Unplug the O2 sensor connector by pressing the retention tab down and pulling the connector apart.

Remove Old Sensor

The sensor can now be removed from the engine bay.

Apply Anti-seize to New Sensor

Apply a thin line of anti-seize lubricant to the threads of the new O2 sensor ensuring not to touch the sensing element on the end or get any anti-seize in the holes.

Install New Sensor

Hand-thread new O2 sensor into the engine. Once fully flush, torque the sensor down to 37-ft Ib.

Re-Plug Connector

Plug the new O2 sensor into place.

NOTE

For cleanliness, neatly ziptie the O2 sensor cable and tuck it away.

Re-Install Bracket

Re-install the metal bracket back over the O2 sensor ensuring not to drop the small E8 screws.

Re-Installation

Re-install all components in the vice versa of removal. i.e cabin air filter and cowl, covers, etc.

Reconnect Battery

Reconnect your BMW's battery.

Clear Engine Codes

Using a BMW scan tool, clear all engine codes and confirm any O2 sensor related codes are gone.

Test Electrical System

Power on vehicle to test all electronics are functioning properly. Keep an eye on your dashboard for rough idling or check engine lights. If the check engine light is still present, connect a scan tool and troubleshoot further.

DIY Complete

Good job replacing your O2 sensor! Be sure to keep an eye on your electrical system for any future issues.