The oxygen sensor of my 85 245 is going bad. The least expensive Bosch I can find is around $140. Any recommendations on aftermarket oxygen sensors? Would it be worth it to try a used oxygen sensor? Thanks - George

I bought the Bosch Universal No. 13913 from Advance Auto Parts and spliced it in on my 88 740. It costs only about $35 and they will loan you the socket to replace it.

I concur with other respondent...buy NEW sensor. Some time back VCOA President warned that splicing Volvo connection onto new universal sensor took some care and skill so as not to add undue resistance to the effective O2 sensor resistance.

Make sure you purchase or rent or borrow an O2 sensor socket. You'll need a socket and it must have flats on the socket for a good open end wrench. You'll need a relatively long wrench, and patience to ease the old part out of its threaded fitting. There is no room for the ratchet head! Don't forget to cover the fender with a cloth, and to take off your belt buckle so you don't scratch the paint as you lean over the car. You may also want to remove the grille, as leaning on it can crack it!

You should consider the utility of the exact part replacement and the time you have to fix the car...maybe the new part from Beechmont in Cincy or wherever you found your discount part is worth the extra. Make sure you know if you have the two wire or three wire sensor, also.

Don't spend the money on a used one. Buy a Bosch universal and splice the wiring to it with the harness from the O2 sensor in your car.