Removal and installation lambda probes (Opel Vectra C)

Lambda probes are designed to monitor and adjust the composition of exhaust gases. The sensors are screwed into the pipe before and after the catalytic converter. To remove the probes, as a rule, a special socket wrench with a slotted hole for the electric wire is used. Depending on the length and location of the sensor, the wrenches can have different designs. The procedure for removing/installing the probe is not complicated, but requires accuracy.

Remove the engine cover.

The pre-catalytic lambda probe is installed in the inlet section of the catalytic converter or on the exhaust manifold. Disconnect the lambda probe wiring connector, cut (with appropriate equipment) harness clamp. Using a special key, carefully unscrew and remove the probe.

The post-catalytic lambda probe is usually installed on the first (intake) section of the exhaust system. Raise the car on a lift, disconnect the probe wiring connector.

Note: On models equipped with the Z22YH engine, the downpipe must be disconnected and slightly lowered to access the sensor.

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Carefully unscrew the lambda probe using a socket wrench (see accompanying illustration) and take it off.

Installation is performed in the reverse order of removal. Before installation, lubricate the lambda probe thread with a thin layer of heat-resistant Opel mounting paste (petrol engine: black grease, diesel engine: white grease), put it back in place.

Attention! The mounting paste should be applied only to the threads, do not allow it to get on the lambda probe body!

Note: If the lambda probe is installed without using heat-resistant grease, the thread will start to stick over time. As a result, it will be impossible to unscrew the probe during the next service. New sensors already have the necessary grease.