Hi,

So my car, 1986 240 wagon, has once again failed the smog test here in California and I think one of the problems is my oxygen sensor. Upon removing it I discovered that it had been replaced once before with a three wire splice-in sensor; being that I don't know when that was done, if it is the correct sensor etc, I have decided to replace it so I can sport around LA in the beast for yet another year. My question here is do I need to use an oxygen sensor that is specific designed for my car or can I use another one, say for a Ford Escort etc? The obvious reason for this question is that a senor specifically for my car is quite a bit more expensive. Also, is there any reason why I shouldn't use another splice-in replacement sensor instead of a complete one with wires/plugs? It doesn't seam like the wires would go bad but...

Thanks

Scott

86 240 160K miles