The oxygen sensor measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust. The Electronic Control Module uses this information to calculate the ideal fuel/air mixture for the engine. A faulty oxygen sensor will cause the Beetle to run poorly, and the fuel economy will suffer. The oxygen sensor is not difficult to change, and only a few hand tools are required. You can save $100 to $200 in labor costs by installing the oxygen sensor yourself.
Start your Beetle and let the engine warm up. Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Turn the engine off and place chocks behind the tires.
Raise the Beetle with a floor jack until the oxygen sensor can be reached. Place jack stands under the vehicle. Lower the floor jack until the jack stands are supporting the Beetle.
Don your safety glasses and gloves. Take off the oxygen sensor junction box cover with the small crescent wrench. Disconnect the oxygen sensor electrical cable. Remove the oxygen sensor from the exhaust pipe with the 7/8-inch open-end wrench.
Apply anti-seize compound to the threads of the sensor. Insert the new sensor and tighten it. Reconnect the electrical cable. Reinstall the junction box cover.
Jack the car back up and remove the jack stands. Lower the car and remove the tire chocks. Drive the Beetle, checking the engine for proper operation.
