Oxygen sensors (O2 sensors, alternatively) measure...you guessed it, oxygen. More specifically, they measure the oxygen content in the gas or exhaust. They are plunged into your exhaust both before and after your catalytic converter(s). The reason oxygen sensors are so important is that they help your car's computer determine the correct amount of fuel necessary for your car to idle and run properly. When your oxygen sensors are engaged, your fuel system is said to be in Closed Loop, which simplifies to meaning the amount of fuel being put in is determined by the amount of oxygen being pushed out.
So, what can go wrong when your O2 sensors aren't functioning properly? For starters, you car can stall out. To get into Closed Loop, your engine (specifically your engine coolant) needs to be at normal temperature. Usually though, O2 sensors break down over time, so before you might stall out completely, you'll notice very erratic idling behavior. Another possibility is low fuel efficiency, as your car will attempt to operate in Open Loop more (meaning the air to fuel ratio is determined by the air coming into the air intake).
Depending on your vehicle, oxygen sensors usually need replacing around 60,000 to 90,000 miles, but this can vary greatly. If you're unsure about the status of your O2 sensors, bring your Mazda into Parks Mazda at your convenience and we'll take a look at them for you!
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