Oxygen Sensor Question

[dcat151]

Hey everyone: I just registered here (and just found the site yesterday). I purchased a 1997 J30 with 68K miles on it this weekend. Unfortunately, I already have a question.

I was driving it yesterday and the check engine light came on. I went to Advance Auto Parts and had them pull the code for me. The code was P0150: oxygen circuit malfunction bank 2, sensor 1. I looked the code up on this site and confirmed it was an oxygen sensor. I've looked at a couple of the threads regarding oxygen sensors and it appears to be a DYI project. My question is: which oxygen sensor is bank 2, sensor 1? From reading the threads here I understand that there are four sensors. I was told by the Advance employee that it was the downstream sensor, or the one after the cat, on the driver's side.

Assuming that I can change out the oxygen sensor, is there a way to reset the check engine light? (I know on my S2000 I just pull the ECU fuse, but I don't know if the procedure is the same on the J30.)

Finally, I read in the owner's manual that the J30 uses 91 octane AKI gas; the former owner mentioned using 89 octane AKI gas, so I assume this is what he used. I have not noticed any problems with the car (knocking, etc.) (aside from the oxygen sensor), but is this a serious problem?

Sorry to start off with so many questions. I appreciate any help anyone can give me.

Thanks.

[littlewillie]

Modified by littlewillie at 11:11 PM 12/23/2007

[dcat151]

Thanks for the help.

I will use 91 octane gas, but am just wondering if the prior owner's use of 89 octane did any permanent damage. Like I said it doesn't seem to have done anything, and there's not a whole lot I can do if it has, but I was just curious.

[yodawill2000]

I doubt it did any damage.Just caused the ecu to retard the timing.Someone will chime in with a technical answer soon.Welcome to Nico !!!

[fourdrinie]

You can reset the CEL with an OBDII Scanner...very simple to do....you can either buy one or borrow one from Autozone..from a friend..or some nationally advertised transmission shops will even do it for free (so says their advertising). A good mechanic should have one and not charge too much just to clear the code....

[gr8scott72]

Downstream (after cat), driver's side is correct.

[driverdriver]

Welcome to NICO!!!

If your changing out your sparkplugs be sure to replace them with OEM Nissan plugs (NGK platinums I believe). Any thing else and the car won't run right.

[dcat151]

Thanks for the help and the warm welcome. I'm changing the oxygen sensor today and my next mission will be to change the spark plugs. I really appreciate all of the responses to my questions.

[yodawill2000]

dcat.Go with OEM plugs or you will regret it !!