🔧 Oxygen Sensor - Replacement

The 2013 CR-V uses an upstream air/fuel sensor and a downstream oxygen sensor. The replacement process is similar, but the sensor location and connector access are different, so I’m giving you the common steps with both locations called out.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate | Estimated Time: 1-2 hours

---

⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Let the exhaust cool completely before starting. The sensor threads into a very hot exhaust pipe.
• Use jack stands if you need to access the downstream sensor under the vehicle. Never rely on a jack alone.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable if the sensor connector is hard to reach near wiring or hot parts.
• Do not twist or pull on the sensor wire. A damaged harness can cause a new fault code.
• If the sensor is seized, use penetrating oil and a proper oxygen sensor socket. Do not round off the hex.

---

🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Oxygen sensor socket 7/8-inch
• 3/8-inch ratchet
• 3/8-inch breaker bar
• Extensions
• Penetrating oil
• Torque wrench
• Floor jack (rated 3-ton minimum)
• Jack stands
• Wheel chocks
• Safety glasses
• Mechanic gloves
• Trim clip tool

---

🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Upstream air/fuel sensor - Qty: 1
• Downstream oxygen sensor - Qty: 1
• Anti-seize compound - Qty: 1

---

📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• If replacing the downstream sensor, raise the front of the vehicle and support it with jack stands.
• Let the exhaust cool fully.
• Clear any stored check engine codes after the repair with a scan tool.

---

🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Locate the sensor

• Find the sensor you are replacing.
• The upstream sensor is on the exhaust manifold/front pipe area near the engine.
• The downstream sensor is farther back on the exhaust under the vehicle.

Step 2: Disconnect the electrical connector

• Use your fingers and the trim clip tool if needed to release the connector lock.
• Unclip the sensor harness from any retainers so the wire can move freely.
• Do not pull on the wire.

Step 3: Loosen the old sensor

• Spray penetrating oil on the sensor threads if it looks rusty.
• Use the oxygen sensor socket 7/8-inch with a 3/8-inch ratchet or breaker bar to loosen the sensor.
• Turn counterclockwise to remove it.
• Work it slowly if it feels tight.

Step 4: Install the new sensor

• Compare the old and new sensors to make sure the connector and wire length match.
• Thread the new sensor in by hand first to avoid cross-threading.
• Use the oxygen sensor socket 7/8-inch to snug it down.
• Torque to 44 Nm (32 ft-lbs).
• If the new sensor does not already have a coating, apply a tiny amount of anti-seize to the threads only. Do not get any on the tip.

Step 5: Reconnect the wiring

• Plug the connector back in until it clicks.
• Reinstall the harness into its retainers so it stays away from heat and moving parts.

Step 6: Reassemble and lower the vehicle

• If you lifted the CR-V, remove the jack stands and lower it safely.
• Double-check that no wires are touching the exhaust.

---

✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and check for exhaust leaks around the sensor.
• Use a scan tool to clear the check engine light.
• Drive the vehicle through a normal road test and confirm the light stays off.
• If the code returns, inspect for wiring damage or exhaust leaks before replacing more parts.

---

💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $220-$450 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $60-$180 (parts only)

You Save: $160-$270 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.8-1.5 hours.

---

🎯 Ready to get started?

HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.