Okay, I know that it is common for the CEL light to come on after header install if the O2 sensor gets grease on it, but I have a few more questions... The CEL light came on upon first startup after header install. I drove the car around the block, then parked and reset the ECU but the light stayed on. I read enough other threads that said that it is usually the O2 sensor, but shouldn't my gas mileage be in the toilet? I really haven't noticed a decrease in mpg(its about 23-24 with combo driving), if anything its slightly higher than before(which is what I expected). I don't want to replace the O2 sensor if its not necessary, but at $3.87 a gallon, I don't exactly want to fuck around burning gas either! Any ideas? Input? Thanks!

 

cant say i know the answer, however im curious how the XS headers do in cali with emissions and carb and whatnot.

 

Change the o2 sensor as soon as possible. It can make your car either run too rich or too lean and it will make the cat go bad...OEM new cats are over $1000. Don't think you would like to spend that when you can change that part for less than $20.

 

i read that intake and/or headers will increase your MPG. awesome huh? it "decreases" because people are so excited about their new mods and love to hear/feel it!

 

What code is it? That's the first step.

 

I guess thats what I better do then! Thanks for the heads up!

 

Also a good point, I just found out that Autozone does free readings, so I'll go check that out. Thanks!

 

There's no CARB sticker, but I've never had anyone check under my hood during a smog check before anyway. Emissions should be fine, I mean, it's just pipes and they're Comptech knock-offs so it should be fine. I guess I'm taking a risk.

**Sorry for the three consecutive posts, I didn't know how to quote three different posts in the same reply.

 

It could be a complete coincidence. It's not a bad idea if you're modifying cars to invest in an OBD-II scan tool. They aren't expensive.

 

Where's the port located that you hook the scan tool up to? I have a check engine light I wanna check out before going to the dealership...

 

Auto's are behind the little panel under the "not an ashtray" thing
6mt's are under the dash just to the right of the steering wheel

 

Agree!!!

I moved mine to where the autos are

 

Cool thanks! Any idea how much one of those is?

 

I've seen them on ebay for 100 bucks or less.

 

Damn, DeJaVu. Came here to read up and post this same problem. Found it right there on the home page. Guess it's not as "off" as I thought it might be. Welp, time to dump more money.

 

You're mileage isn't affected either? Weird!

I am shooting over to Autozone tomorrow to find out the code for sure. Thanks again everyone for the help!

 

Should be interesting to see why you have CEL, im sure it is the o2 sensor. Driving with a CEL on is no fun

 

Anyone have an idea of how much is involved in DIY the O2 sensor? If it's just a plug and a couple bolts I might as well order it and do it my damn self. We'll see what the "stealership" says.

 

Those fuckers at Autozone don't do free CEL readings in Cali for some stupid reason. Checked with Aamco and they said they would check it for free but are booked solid for the next week. Sigh... guess I better just change the damn O2 sensor and keep my fingers crossed. I'll probably order the reader too, but not til my next paycheck.

 

you guys put way too much effort into things.

o2s are like 60/per sensor

www.oxygensensors.com

for like $15 you can rent the scanner from autozone and just check it yourself. it would be stupid to replace parts without knowing the code.

 

Autozone does not rent those things out here in Cali for some unknown reason, and I don't have time during the week to run around to a bunch of different places. But I'm confused by your post... are you saying that I should just replace the O2 sensor or are you saying I would be stupid to replace it without knowing for sure that that was the problem?

 

i think it's stupid to replace parts when you dont know the code, and i also think it's stupid to pay 100 per sensor.

 

Gotcha

 

Ok. Let's hope a week's worth of driving won't F up the Cat while I wait on the part. I can do a sensor, I can't do a brand new Cat.

 

For the cost of an O2 sensor buy yourself a scanner. You can get them on Ebay cheap, or even walmart. All you need is a basic ODBII scanner that reads & clears codes. If it is the 02 sensor, then at least you now have a scanner for future problems. And since it's OBDII you can use it on most any car out there. Rent it to your friends, recoup your investment.

 

I got a OBDII scanner from snap on. It its in my pocket and payed $60. I let my freinds borrow it and have already payed for itself.

I wouldn't replace things unless you know what they are anyways, its just a waste of time and $ guessing and checking when you can just get the code and know what your problem is.

 

What I ment to say was its small and fits in my pockets. It scans tells you the code and clears it. Very handy tool.

 

Which version is that? I see them on Autozone's website between $70-$380. I'm about to go check 'em out and ask some questions. Hope somebody that knows what the hell they're talking about is working today.

 

Fixed. Light gone.