1997 Accord O2 Sensor

My CEL came on, and the code says I need to replace my SH02 sensor . (By
the catalytic converter).

There seem to be a few available on line - some (Bosch's) at about $130, and
other brands near half that price. Without stating the obvious, what's the
difference?

Thanks...

....Mike

BTW, the car has about 93K miles - I bought it about 1K miles ago. 4 cyl.,
not v-tec, standard transmission

 

One has to consider miles and years. The original (assuming
it is the original) lasted 11 years. It paid for itself.

Do not buy Bosch. Their O2 sensors have a reputation for
throwing Honda engine controls out of whack sooner rather
than later. Only buy OEM or from the OEM manufacturer of
Honda's O2 sensors, like Denso.

You can get a Denso direct fit (that is, OEM connector) at
www.densoproducts.com for about $50. Amazon has similar
prices.

 

If it's a 1997 then likely you'll have a Bosch *planar type* oxygen
sensor available. These by design are more resistant to contamination.
You can get them either with OEM plug, or you can get a "universal"
wire if you don't mind the extra work of splicing the old connector
onto the new sensor.

I would not get the Denso sensor. IMO those thimble types are junk.

http://www.boschautoparts.com/Products/OxygenSensors/PlanarO2.htm

 

I don't know which engine, but for the F22B2 4-cyl or F27A4 6-cyl
www.rockauto.com lists the upstream planar (with OEM connector) for
about $71+shipping and downstream planar for $62+shipping. I'm sure
local parts stores aren't that much higher?

Where online did you get $130??

 

Complete hogwash!!! Your opinion of Denso being junk is not shared by most.

 

I have been using Denso and only Denso in my 91 Civic for
years. It is on its second one. The first did not fail; I
replaced it pre-emptively at about 150k miles.

Bosch is not thought highly of at all in the archives here
or at www.honda-tech.com.

 

Actually in a newer Civic the NTK L1H1 wideband pump cell sensors is
used. For those who don't know, it's part of NGK. I do like NGK
products. Denso doesn't have this kind of technology. The better
designed Bosch LSU4 series is a highly regarded alternative for other
wideband applications. Just google.

Now I recognize people's preferences differ. But if the cheap denso
works, why not. But I say go with a Bosch PLANAR type sensor for
i.k.e.'s application.

 

It's not a matter of preference, but a matter of common sense. Again, Bosch
O2 sensors have been proven to NOT work with Honda. ANY Honda!!!