April 2019

APRIL 2019 AFTERMARKET 45 Lambda sensor 5-wire sensor www.aftermarketonline.net W hen working with sensitive equipment like the Lamda sensor, technicians need to be aware of how to deal with such equipment. After all, Lambda sensors perform a vital function for engine management. Commenting on their Lambda sensors, Mark Hallam, Marketing Manager, NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd, said: “There are good reasons why ignition specialist NGK’s NTK Lambda sensors are the number one choice of vehicle manufacturers around the world, they are ‘Similar but different’. NGK is the world’s largest manufacturer of Lambda sensors and supplies a market-leading range to the aftermarket under the NTK brand name. “The experience we have in supplying the VMs worldwide allows us to offer exactly the right sensor for every vehicle application and we always urge distributors to encourage garages to always go with a bespoke original equipment (OE) quality Lambda sensor and steer well clear of ‘universal sensors’.“ The company continues to enhance its NTK sensors’ offering with the launch of 20 new wide band Lambda sensors in November 2018. “The new wide band sensors – commonly referred to as ‘5-wire’ Lambda sensors – supplement the company’s existing range of 64 NTK OE 5- wire sensors, “ explains Mark. “The launch significantly increased its UK range coverage – particularly for VAG models – and means that NGK now has 5-wire sensors available for almost every vehicle manufacturer who utilises this technology.“ TECHNICAL STRONG & SENSITIVE: LAMBDA SENSORS Engine sensors perform a vital function in keeping the car running correctly, none more so than the Lambda sensor “Sensors are very vehicle specific, “ says Mark, “therefore it is essential that the replacement item has the same specification as the original factory fitted part.“ “Differences in the wiring configuration may not be easily identified therefore selection of the correct part is vital. Part of the EOBD (European On-Board Diagnostics) function is to monitor the performance of both the fuel regulating and catalyst monitoring diagnostic sensor. Fitting a sensor that does not match the specification of the original part could result in poor running, record of a fault code or cause the MIL (malfunction indicator lamp) to illuminate, telling the driver that there is a problem in the system. “Sensors live in a harsh environment and corrosion of the exhaust and sensor is inevitable. This can make removal difficult and so it is essential that suitable tools be employed, such as a tube spanner, to prevent personal injury or damage to the sensor.” “Before installing the new sensor, ensure that the threads are clean and in good condition. All NTK sensors have a factory applied anti-seize compound on the threads. This grease is sensor friendly and care should be taken if alternative greases are used to make sure that they contain no sensor damaging ingredients.” Mark adds: “Tighten the sensor to the recommended torque to ensure correct sealing, a good earth via the exhaust (if applicable) and not to over stress the metal shell. Before connecting the multi-plug, check the vehicle side connector for damage, oil contamination and corrosion.”