Just done a service ready for MOT next week and used my new code reader to be told as above, which surprises me somewhat as I replaced the exhaust, cat and sensor last April.
What I want to know is will this cause an emission fail when I take it in next weak bearing in mind that my car falls into the narrow window of not needing a Cat test, or can I replace the sensor when I have a bit more spare time?
As usual thanks in anticipation.
Error code 17 usually means that the precat lambda sensor is not working.
If this is a current error your air/fuel mixture will be compromised and emissions will be compromised.
I would try resetting the code unless there is an obvious problem and see if luck is with you and it was a one-off.
If it occurs again the lambda will need replacing. At least the recent replacement will mean that the sensor should be easy to remove.
Hi and thanks,
Thought this might be the case, annoying as I said only replaced last April, have contacted MX5 parts but it will probably be out of warranty.
Noticed the plugs were sooty hence checked codes as I thought something was amiss, although running fine. Will try resetting and see if it returns, then if necessary will have to get new sensor before the test.
Yes should be easy to remove, that said the last one wasn’t difficult, have read somewhere that they can be cleaned in vinegar might give that a try if it works.
Thanks again always good to get second opinion.
Ok now totally confused.
Deleted the error code as above and checked that it was gone, restarted the engine and no error code!
So at some stage the sensor has stopped functioning generated the code then restarted, how can that happen?
Better get it in for its MOT before it changes its mind again.
Still looking on the bright side I now have a new spare sensor that has just arrived
Thanks for the advice rhino666