DIY or best left to mechanic?
 

I have a 1997 Camry V6 with 189,320 miles. The check engine light has been on for three months now. Car runs fine, though, and it pulls a code P1135 which says "fuel sensor heater circuit response; bank 1 sensor 1." I was just wondering if anyone knew where this particular sensor was located on the car and if this is something that someone with little mechanic prowess could actually replace. My car is due for inspection before the end of July and I've gotten prices of $600 and up to replace the O2 sensor... was wondering if there's any way i could save some coin and still prep the car to pass inspection. Thanks in advance.

That is the O2 sensor closest to the firewall. Its easier to reach from underneath- so depending on what kind of tools to have at home (a drive up ramp will help alot), you may need to have it done by a mechanic.

JJ

Go For It
 

I would go ahead and invest in some tools to help make it easier to do this repair.

1. Buy yourself a code reader/scanner so you can reset the CE light and erase the code (after a certain number of starts the code is erased) when the o2 sensor is replaced. A good one for non-pros is ….

Equus OBD II Code Reader

Part Number: 3100

You can get it at any auto parts store like Kragen’s for under $140….sometimes on
sale for $100.

2. An 02 sensor socket if needed …makes it easier to remove….. less than $15.

3. A shop manual for your car. Go to camrystuff.com and download the
Generation 4 information.

If this is the original 02 sensor that came with your car … you got your money’s worth. Where you buy the new sensor is up to you and your pocket book. Anywhere from $50 – 250. Parts store - Dealer



I have a brother who never did any work on his own cars. He had no mechanical abilities. He spend so much $$$$ taking his cars to his mechanic. Finally started to work on his cars himself to save money. His 1st repair…..an 02 sensor replacement, Different cars but same tools. If he can do it I’m sure you can too. So I say go for it.