mclasser

Got a CEL this morning with code P1167. Appears the front O2 sensor (A/F sensor ratio as Honda calls it) is bad. Car has a rough idle and some upper engine chatter but otherwise pulls hard and strong. Did some research and the Denso 234-9014 is a direct replacement for an otherwise exorbitantly expensive part from Honda for my SULEV engine.

The sensor looks pretty easy to get to. Do I have to buy a special O2 sensor socket or can a 22 mm open ended wrench do the job? Thanks!

MAD_MIKE

On ULEV cars the sensor is what is called a 'wide band' air/fuel sensor, were as the more common on older cars and after cat sensor are 'narrow band' O2 sensors.

Rock Auto usually has the OE part number listed next to the Denso part number to verify before purchase.

Ideally you would use an 'O2' sensor socket as it is 6 point and has a notch on the side to allow room for the wire harness when installing/removing.
Don't use an open end wrench, use a box end six point if you must(if it can fit over the sensor body/wire harness) and plenty of sensor safe penetrant to prevent seizing/galling/rouding off of the sensor. Biggest problem is although there may seem to be plenty of room for a box end wrench, the clocking of the hex may prevent getting a good enough bite/swing to loosen/tighten the sensor. Watch out for hoses/wires/radiators when working on the sensor.