How many oxygen sensors are on a 2017 Chevy Silverado?
The typical 2017 Silverado with a gasoline engine uses four oxygen sensors in the exhaust system: two upstream sensors before the catalytic converters and two downstream sensors after them. Diesel Duramax variants can vary, but most still use sensors in the exhaust path for aftertreatment monitoring; check your exact engine configuration for precise counts.
Gasoline-powered Silverado: standard sensor layout
For common gasoline engines in the 2017 Silverado, the four sensors are arranged as follows:
- Bank 1 upstream (O2 sensor before the catalytic converter on the first bank).
- Bank 1 downstream (O2 sensor after the catalytic converter on the first bank).
- Bank 2 upstream (O2 sensor before the catalytic converter on the second bank).
- Bank 2 downstream (O2 sensor after the catalytic converter on the second bank).
These sensors feed the engine control module to optimize fuel mixture and monitor catalytic efficiency. The upstream sensors monitor how much oxygen is in the exhaust before treatment; the downstream sensors confirm that the catalytic converter is effectively reducing emissions.
Diesel Duramax variant considerations
In the 2017 Silverado equipped with the Duramax diesel, the exhaust aftertreatment system often uses oxygen sensors to monitor the DPF and overall aftertreatment performance. The exact count can vary by truck and emissions setup, and some configurations may include additional sensors beyond the four used on gasoline engines. Always consult the owner's manual or a GM service bulletin for your specific VIN.
Summary
In short, most 2017 Silverado gasoline models have four oxygen sensors (two upstream and two downstream). Diesel Duramax variants can differ in sensor count due to the exhaust aftertreatment system, so verify the configuration for your specific truck.
Should I replace all four O2 sensors at once?
No, you should not replace all four oxygen sensors at once unless a specific diagnostic indicates they are all failing. It's more cost-effective to replace only the sensors that have failed, as they do not wear out at the same rate. It is often recommended to replace them in pairs (e.g., both upstream or both downstream) if one fails, as the remaining sensor is likely in a similar condition and may fail soon, Reddit user.
This video explains the importance of replacing O2 sensors in pairs: 57sMatt's ShopYouTube · Aug 9, 2017
When to replace all at once
- If your vehicle's computer reports all four sensors are failing simultaneously, as this may indicate a wiring issue rather than four individual sensor failures, Reddit user.
- If the car has a history of issues that could foul all sensors, such as a prolonged engine running rich condition.
When to replace in pairs
- If one sensor fails, replace it along with its counterpart on the same bank (e.g., both upstream or both downstream).
When to replace just one
- If you only have a fault code for a single sensor, replace just that one and monitor the situation.
You can watch this video to learn how to test O2 sensors: 44sEasyAutoFixYouTube · Sep 18, 2022
Other considerations
- Upstream vs. downstream: Upstream sensors are crucial for engine operation, while downstream sensors primarily monitor catalytic converter efficiency.
- Preventative maintenance: Replacing sensors is not recommended as routine preventative maintenance because they do not all wear out at the same time.
- Diagnosis is key: Always diagnose the specific sensor that is failing before replacing it, and if multiple sensors are failing, first investigate potential underlying issues that could have caused them to fail.
How many O2 sensors does a 5.3 have?
A 5.3L engine typically has four O2 sensors: two upstream sensors (pre-catalytic converter) and two downstream sensors (post-catalytic converter). The two upstream sensors monitor the air-fuel mixture on each bank of cylinders, while the two downstream sensors monitor the efficiency of the catalytic converters.
- Upstream: One sensor on each side of the engine, before the catalytic converter, that measures the air-fuel ratio.
- Downstream: One sensor on each side of the engine, after the catalytic converter, to verify that the catalytic converter is working correctly.
How many O2 sensors does a 2017 Chevy Silverado have?
V8 Engines (e.g., 5.3L, 6.0L, 6.2L): Typically 4 O2 sensors (2 upstream - Bank 1 and Bank 2, 2 downstream - Bank 1 and Bank 2).
How much does it cost to replace the oxygen sensor on a 2017 Chevy Silverado?
The average cost for a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Oxygen Sensor Replacement is between $332 and $439.
