one.adam12

I have a 2000 RL 3.5 w/90K miles on it and the check engine light has come on due to malfunctioning "secondary o2 sensor"
the dealership has quoted me a price of $500+ to replace this part.

Is this something that can be changed by any mechanic?
Can I purchase the part and change it myself?
Is there a cheaper way of getting this done?

SeamusNH

Depends on which sensor. There are two on top of the engine that are easy to get to and another one that is under the car, near the catalytic converter, that is tough. Go to www.pdftown.com and get the tech manual (search on "acura rl"; free 40 MB download). There are diagrams that will help...

2000RL

Left o2 sensor (#1) on the left exhaust manifold lists for $277.00 dealer price and $200.00 online from an Acura dealer. Right o2 sensor (#2) on the right exhaust manifold lists for $218 dealer price and $164.00 online. The secondary o2 sensor (RR) which I think is the one you need is located on the catalytic converter and lists for $310.00 dealer price and $233.00 online which with an hour shop time, tax and associated fees gets you to $500.00 the dealer quoted you. OEM costs more because their "plug and play." You can get them much cheaper aftermarket from auto parts stores but I think you have to wire them in yourself. Universal (cheap) o2 sensors run between $41-$54 at RockAuto.com, the more vehicle specific o2 sensors for an RL run between $100-$150 depending on which one you need. Most auto parts stores carry them or can get them. Check on price, availability and verify whether or not the aftermarket ones come with the required connectors or if you have to splice them in to your existing plug. A little research and leg work can save you a bundle. Hope this helps.

97_RLer

Check the price at www.densoproducts.com. As I remember, the secondary O2 sensor was around $13x.xx. The OEM RL oxygen sensors are all Denso parts and you will get the exactly the same parts from Denso directly at much cheaper price. These are direct fit and bolt on. As long as oxygen sensors, I would strongly recommend you to use the same OEM parts but not any other aftermarket parts. You will learn it by trial and error but just do it right at first time.

FYI: DIY of the secondary O2 sensor is not that difficult at all. A special tool you only need is a short O2 sensor socket. Of course, you can borrow it at any auto part stores for free. Jack up the car and unbolt totally 10 bolts and/or nuts to remove the heat shield cover under the catalytic converter. Afterwards, it is just straightforward job. You may have a difficulty to loosen the rusted bolts and nuts since they were aged and rusted with high temperature. Just spray WD-40 or bolt buster in advance of your work. It will not takes more than 2 hours even you are not experienced..........

Have a fun..........

97_RLer