I will be removing the engine for the second time in one year due to the leaking vacuum line and was wondering if i should mind as well replace the o2 sensors? It's a 05 continental gt with 70k miles. Flying spares has the sensors for roughly $1200 but ive found aftermarket ones for $100 each. Anybody use the aftermarket o2 sensors?

 

I have codes p0160 and p2279. P0160 is a o2 sensor but i dont know if the vacuum leak would be causing the sensor to act up.

 

I'd change it just to be safe. Good 'insurance' for only $200.

 

If you're going to change the sensors, change all four (each side has a pre-cat and a post cat sensor). Given the cost of the engine removal, also check your starter motor which is relatively inexpensive but requires an engine out to replace.

 

Have you ever heard of anyone using aftermarket o2 sensors?

 

I'm not saying aftermarket won't work, only that given the cost/effort of engine or cat/downpipe removal, it isn't worth the risk. If you want OEM, try Flying Spares or Scuderia Systems in the UK. I have been able to land OEM parts at about 55-60% of what the local B. dealer wants. Also, check with VW. The Phaeton sensors are probably the same and if so, substantially less money.

 

GREAT advice PMS! VW parts work fine for me and good catch on replacing the starter, another known problem.

 

Yea thats true! I will probably order all four from flyingspares. I dont know if i should do the starter though because 70k miles sounds low for a starter.

 

And 28k miles was low for a known defective false air problem to develop. Remember, these cars have widely known problems and the starter is one of those. Of course you can always just pull the engine again if that situation occurs.

 

Yea we took the engine out already and its a pretty big job. I dont want to be taking the engine out every year haha. I will probably order the starter since its about $600 from flying spare. Good website for bentley parts compared to dealer prices.

 

what brand of the aftermarket sensor you use?
is it plug and play or u need to rewire it?
if u need to rewire it i suppose u shouldn't do it.

 

I'm actually going to use OEM sensors from flyingspares. Too afraid that the aftermarket sensors might not work as they should and don't want to risk it!

 

....like the guy says on Shark Tank...might be time to take the dog behind the barn...JimB

 

I replaced my O2 sensors with aftermarket Walker brand, costed bout $300
2x New O2 Oxygen Sensor Downstream Upstream VW, AUDI BENTLEY 234-4809 \13

I have to admit though, I was really nervous about them first not working right, but now its tested and working.