Cambiare Looks Into Lambda Sensors

What is a Lambda Sensor?

Lambda sensors (also known as oxygen sensors) are devices fitted to petrol and diesel engine exhaust systems that measure the oxygen content of exhaust gases.  The purpose of the sensor is to help the engine run as efficiently as possible while producing fewer emissions.

The combustion of fuel within an engine occurs due to a mixture of air and fuel, ideally in the ratio of 14.7: 1 in a petrol engine and 14.5:1 in the case of a diesel engine.  This ratio is also known as the stoichiometric [pronounced: stoy·key·o·met·ric] ratio or Lambda (?) where the mixture has a value of 1.0.

During combustion, the ratio of air to fuel mixture varies. This can create the following situations:

  • Excess fuel could leave residual fuel after combustion, known as a rich mixture. The unburned fuel in a rich mixture creates pollution.
  • Excess oxygen intake, caused by the presence of more air than the stoichiometric ratio, creates a lean mixture. A lean mixture tends to produce more nitrogen-oxide pollutants, and, in some cases, it can cause poor performance and even engine damage.

The regulating lambda sensor is positioned in the exhaust pipe, before the catalytic converter, and can detect rich and lean mixtures. The mechanism in most sensors involves a chemical reaction that generates a voltage. The engine's computer (ECU) looks at the voltage and adjusts the fuel injector output accordingly, so as to bring it closer to the stoichiometric ratio (?).

Why choose Cambiare?

Cambiare lambda sensors are precision-made for outstanding performance and manufactured to meet all original equipment specification and test requirements.

This enables:

  • Improved engine response and performance;
  • Lower emissions;
  • Improved fuel economy;
  • Longer sensor life.

Value Added Services

  • 2 year or 30,000 mile warranty, whichever comes first
  • Technical helpline 0845 543 8280
  • OE quality, BER compliant parts