1989 300te- My mechanic says that I probably need a new oxygen sensor (poor fuel milage for example). Seems like a task I can handle, but I have no manual. There are also several types of sensors...how do I know what is right for my car (I saw ones for $30, and ones for $120). I believe the 1989 takes only ONE...correct? Any helpful hints on selection and replacement of the O2 Sensor ?

I would ask your mechanic why doesn't he just put a new one then? Probably? Where I come from mechanics don't say "probably", they just do it charge you whatever. At anyrate...I would bet it's not the O2 sensor anyway. As I have a 1990 300TE I can offer this. There are several different versions of O2 sensors on the market, both in brand and otherwise. The big difference is the wiring harness and associated ease of installation. I looked into this and found that prices can vary from $40 to $300, depending upon things. In the final analysis of my particular problem however, it was a coolant sensor and new spark plugs. I was thinking way past the problem.......

He doesn't put it in because he wants ME TO...save me money! Also won't do my brakes, says "It's an insult to you (me) for me to do your brakes...do them yourself, save money...use my tools if you need any".
Great friend/ great mechanic.
BUT...I still have to hunt down an 02 sensor.
What is a coolant sensor? How would one know if it's bad. My fuel milage has dropped down to 14mpg from 20.... I put new plugs in a short while back, as well as cap/ rotor and wires.

>My fuel milage has dropped down to 14mpg from 20.... I put new plugs in a short while back, as well as cap/ rotor and wires.
>

What kind ???

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A Dalton