Oxygen Sensor

The oxygen sensor, inserted into the exhaust manifold, is a hollow tube. This tube is divided into inner and outer compartments by a U-shaped rod coated with platinum. The exhaust gas enters the outer compartment through a series of slits. Air is available to the inner compartment through a vent at the other end. An electrical signal is generated by the platinum in response to the difference in oxygen content on either end of the rod. The strength of the signal lets the computer know how much oxygen is in the exhaust. From this information, the computer can tell how well the fuel is burning.