Well, after a respectable amount of trouble free driving since buying my '98 VDP in December '17, the "Engine Check Light" came on this weekend.
When I got home I plugged in my OBD II reader and got a P1647 code, oxygen sensor control module, bank 2 open/shorted.
And, of course, the bank 2 sensor is on the "port" side (left for land lubbers) of the motor, under the radiator expansion tank and under a heat shield, quite difficult to access. The other side looks relatively easy to access. My question is, before I commit to trying to replace the sensor, how do you unclip the plastic connector without breaking it?
I've watched a few youtube videos, 1 shows the starboard side being removed, another shows the sensors being removed from underneath, and another shows the guy breaking the connector whilst trying to unplug it. So I'd like to unplug the sensor to both test it with a meter and clean the contacts that maybe causing the error code.
I've found the correct plug but it doesn't want to disconnect, so I assume there's a particular technique for doing this.
Can anyone help me in that regard?
Clive

 

I believe that you are aware that you should NOT test the oxygen sensor with an Ohm-meter, it can easily damage the sensor. Testing with a voltmeter is fine.

I have not disconnected any of my oxygen sensors yet but, looking at a new one that I have, you should press and hold the tab of the harness side connector which goes under the "bench" of the sensor side connector (or you can insert a toothpick, tip cut-off, under the "bench" to hold the tab tight against the connector body) and pull. The problem is that there is a silicone rubber seal inside which, after a number of years, can stick to the connector inner surfaces pretty well. So you need o wiggle the connector while you pull and take time.

 

Only advice i can offer is pull harder as they can be sticky to separate. Any i have done required unclipping them from the metal bracket and holding each half in each hand to pull them apart. Removing the left hand sensor is a fiddly job, you will need to get yourself a crow foot O2 sensor socket and a breaker bar. The right hand side is easy to access with the intake pipework removed.

 

M. Stojanovic
""which goes under the "bench" of the sensor side connector (or you can insert a toothpick, tip cut-off, under the "bench" to hold the tab tight against the connector body) and pull"".

Thanks for the advice, but what part are you calling "the bench"?
Clive

Andmars
""Any i have done required unclipping them from the metal bracket ""

Thanks Andmars, Will the connector just slide off the bracket, or is there something you have to push, pull, press, twist, or pray to first?
Clive

 

The bench

 

With age and dirt those connections become more difficult to remove -- I remember having to remove the assembly in order to get access and a good grip to separate.

The whole job while not difficult is a pain -- took me a few hours over two days. I needed to spray penetrating oil on the O2 sensor .. it came off the next day with little effort