I just tried out my new Super AutoScanner -- the Actron CP9145 model -- on my 1998 Mercury Sable w/ 3.0L V-6 (U) I got the following codes:
P0156 Mod$10 1/2 O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 2)
P0161 Mod$10 2/2 O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2 Sensor 2)
Okay, I've heard that on SOME cars, bank 1 is the set of O2 sensors that is on the exhaust coming the side of the engine with Cylinder 1 on it. So naturally bank 2, on those cars, would come from the side of the engine with cylinders 4, 5, and 6 on it. Does the same hold true for the 1998 Mercury Sable? The Chilton's book on that car doesn't specifically talk about which bank is which. And presumably Sensor 2 is the one after the catalytic converter.
I'm hoping to try to fix a clattering/chattering/knocking/pinging noise (what's the difference, anyway?) under moderate acceleration, or maintaining speed up a hill or bridge. But I've read that the oxygen sensor behind the catalytic converter doesn't affect the fuel/air ratio; it only reports back to the computer how efficiently everything is working. So while replacing the sensor might allow my "service engine soon" light to remain unlighted, it probably won't help the clattering or fuel efficiency.
The car has 120,500 miles on it and I just replace the plugs and wires about 2,000 miles ago.
Oh, speaking of clattering, one mechanic suggested that with the number of miles on the engine, I should switch from the manufacturer's recommended 5W30 to 10W40. He said the oil was awfully thin. I use Mobil 1 5W30 Synthetic now. I didn't actually see 10W40 in that brand, but I did see 20W50, IIRC.
Any comments, suggestions, or tips on this one?
Thanks, Damaeus