Lambda Sensors Catalogue

4
Lucas Lambda Sensors
Why OE specific over Universal
There are two main types of Lambda sensor:
OE Specific
Designed to match the OE in fit , form and
function. The benefits are simpler to fit and
reduced fitting time. The downside is a greater
stock inventory is required just to cover the
same percentage of the vehicle parc. Today's OE
sensors are more technically specific with
quicker light off times.
Universal
It was once generally accepted that seven part numbers
would fit 95% of the vehicle parc. Which meant a low
stockholding with maximum return. Not so true any
more as vehicle technology has moved on and
universals will not work on any vehicles produced today.
There are two main types of Lambda Sensor
Great care must now be taken when identifying Lambda sensor's, as more and more sensors are becoming
vehicle specific. Colour codes are crucial to getting the job right.
European Lambda sensor wire colours generally follow the same rules
ZIRCONIA TITANIA
Black = signal wire Red = heater +
Grey = dedicated earth wire White = heater –
White = heater wire Black = signal –
White = heater wire Yellow = signal +
All Zirconia sensors have a 18mm thread and the Titania sensors can have either 18 mm or 12 mm threads
with a red wire.
Planar Sensors, which are in the Zirconia family, have no identifying colour changes to the wires. The main
differenceis to the probe that goes into the exhaust system, fundamentally it has abigger wattage heater so will
bring the sensor to full operating temperature quicker. These sensors will not have a compatatible universal
replacement.