QuestionA scan to determine check engine light cause provided a code of P1133 for my '99 toyota camry 4 cyl. This is supposed to be related to the "air-fuel sensor". When I called the parts store I was told this vehicle does not have one and several web sites indicate the same except for California. What do I do now? Can I replace the part causing this problem? Thanks.
AnswerYes, they are correct. As per California's very strict emissions standards, their cars always have something a little extra. I know that when I did my tune up, I almost bought this cali distributor cap that had five wires, not four.
Anyways, the A/F Sensor in a "federal" Camry would be the O2 sensor, which if you have a 4 cyl, shoud be visible as it sticks out of the exhaust header. But, who read the code for you? If it's Toyota, ask them if that's the right part to change. You should be able to call them up to see if they can offer any help. Hopefully they won't just blow you off for asking and be like "Ohhh, you need to go to one of our Toyota certified technicians.." That's when you tell them that you aren't paying "Toyota certified prices for an easy answer!" LOL:)
Ohhhh.. Should you want to replace the 02 sensor, buying a DIRECT FIT one should cost about 100 to 135. Expensive? Yup. BUT, you can also buy a "universal fit" 02 sensor, just check how many wires lead to your O2 sensor. My sensor only has one wire. With just that, I can get on Ebay and find a nice Bosch (trusted, reliable) sensor that fits my car for only 26 bucks. Does that not beat buying a direct fit? The only draw back is that you have to wire the sensor with the wire(s) on your O2 sensor. Look around to get a better idea of how you do it, if you feel it's easy, then that's money saved for these GAS PRICES:) LOL!
Hope this helps!
-David D.
