BMW O2 sensor refers to the electronic probe that is typically embedded on the collector tube of the exhaust manifold of the engine. The O2 or oxygen sensor is basically a measuring device that detects the proportion of oxygen present in the exhaust gases. The oxygen sensor sends electronic data to the onboard computer (also known as engine control unit or ECU). Based on the data sent by the oxygen sensor, the ECU will make appropriate adjustments. The oxygen sensor helps in maintaining high efficiency in combustion. Extra or excessive concentration of oxygen in the exhaust is indicative of incomplete combustion.
By monitoring and sending information to the ECU, the BMW O2 sensor significantly contributes to the efficiency of the engine. Depending on the needs of the driving situation, the ECU adjusts the fuel injection rate, the air intake rate, the firing sequence and rate of sparkplug firing, and the voltage of the ignition system. All of these factors vary as a result of the constant adjustment of the engine to equally varying driving situations. Driving on a steep slope is different from driving on a flat road. Driving on rocky dirt road is different from driving on muddy road.
Generally speaking an oxygen sensor such as the BMW O2 sensor resembles a sparkplug with extended wire. The tip of the probe is embedded on the collector tube of the exhaust manifold or on one of the combustion chambers of the engine. The tip of the probe is a zirconium ceramic bulb that is coated with a thin layer of platinum. When hot exhaust gases make contact with the tip of the probe, the zirconium and platinum generates certain amount of electrical voltage that is dependent on the concentration of oxygen. Discount BMW O2 sensor is conveniently available online.
