If your 2004 Camry suddenly begins to die for no apparent reason or the check-engine light comes on, it may mean it is time to replace one of your oxygen sensors. Your oxygen sensors regulate the gas-to-oxygen ratio in the vehicle's combustion chambers. With use and time, however, your oxygen sensors can develop clogs. When an oxygen sensor begins to go bad, it usually triggers the check-engine light. If you suspect the oxygen sensor on your Camry is going, it is better to change it sooner than later.
Bring your Camry to an auto-parts store and have them run a free diagnostic test to determine which sensor is out.
Jack your Camry up. Insert jack stands under the rear frame and set the Camry down on them.
Slide under your Camry and locate the oxygen sensor. There are two on the exhaust pipe -- one "upstream" of the catalytic converter toward the front of the car and one "downstream" of the catylitic converter, toward the rear.
Use your fingers to unplug the plastic wiring harness from the back of the sensor.
Remove the two retaining bolts holding the sensor in place with your socket set. Set the new sensor in place and hand-thread the two retaining bolts. Tighten them with the socket.
Plug the plastic wiring harness into the back of your new sensor.
Get out from under your Camry and jack it up about 8 inches. Remove the jack stands and lower your Camry to the floor.
