How much does it cost to replace the oxygen sensor on a Lexus IS250?

Let’s break down the potential cost to replace an oxygen (O2) sensor on a Lexus IS250 based on available estimates. Keep in mind that prices can vary significantly based on several factors.

Estimated Cost Range:

• General Average: According to RepairPal, the average cost for a Lexus IS250 oxygen sensor replacement typically falls between $431 and $541.
  • Labor: Estimated between $192 and $282.
  • Parts: Estimated between $239 and $259.
• Year-Specific Variations: RepairPal also shows that the cost can differ quite a bit depending on the model year:
  • 2013-2011 IS250: ~$343 – $423
  • 2012 IS250 (Specific Example): ~$295 – $327 (Labor ~$123-$155, Parts ~$172)
  • 2006-2007 IS250: ~$530 – $738
  • 2014-2015 IS250: ~$496 – $550+
• Other Estimates: AutoNation Mobile Service shows real-world quotes ranging widely, often between $250 and $370, but with examples reaching over $600-$800 depending on location and specifics. YourMechanic provides much higher estimates, often exceeding $900-$1200, especially for upstream sensors, which might reflect dealership pricing or include additional diagnostics.

Factors Influencing the Cost:

1. Which Sensor: Your IS250 has multiple oxygen sensors (typically four: two upstream before the catalytic converter, and two downstream after). Upstream sensors (often called Air/Fuel Ratio sensors) are usually more expensive than downstream sensors.
2. Part Brand:
   • OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer – likely Denso for Lexus): Generally, the most expensive but guarantees compatibility. Prices found range from roughly $160 to over $370 per sensor.
   • Quality Aftermarket (Denso, Bosch, NTK): Often recommended and can range from $80 to $250+ per sensor depending on the specific part number.
   • Budget Aftermarket: Can be found for as low as $25-$75, but quality and longevity might be a concern. Using high-quality sensors is generally advised for proper engine performance.
3. Labor Rates: Mechanic labor rates vary significantly depending on your geographic location and whether you go to a dealership or an independent shop. Dealerships typically charge more. The job usually takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour per sensor if easily accessible.
4. Model Year: As seen in the estimates, different model years can have different part requirements and costs.
5. Additional Repairs: Sometimes, an O2 sensor fails due to contamination (like an oil or coolant leak). ¹ If that’s the case, the underlying leak must also be repaired, adding to the total cost.

While a general average estimate is $431 – $541, you could see costs as low as ~$300 or potentially much higher ( $600+ ), especially at a dealership or if an upstream sensor needs replacement.

Recommendation:

To get an accurate price, it’s best to:

1. Identify which specific sensor needs replacing (your mechanic can diagnose this using OBD-II codes).
2. Get quotes from a few local independent mechanics and potentially the dealership, specifying the year of your IS250 and which sensor needs replacement. Ask if they are quoting OEM or aftermarket parts.

How many oxygen sensors does a Lexus is250 have?

Essentially, on the is250, there are four to be considered. There are 2 Upstream sensors (Bank 1 Sensor 1 and Bank 2 Sensor 1) and 2 Downstream sensors located after the cats (Bank 1 Sensor 2 and Bank 2 Sensor 2).

How much is a O2 sensor for a Lexus?

The average cost for a Lexus RX350 Oxygen Sensor Replacement is between $482 and $511. Labor costs are estimated between $110 and $139 while parts are priced between $372 and $373. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

What symptoms does a bad O2 sensor cause?

Signs a Vehicle has a Bad O2 Sensor

• Check Engine Light Comes On.
• Noticeable Loss of Fuel Efficiency.
• Sulfur or ‘Rotten Egg’ smell from Exhaust.
• Black smoke from exhaust.
• Emission levels reach high levels.
• Your engine hesitates, skips, begins bucking or has power surges.

Can I replace my O2 sensor myself?

You can do these yourself if you can get to them you just need a good O2 sensor wrench and some seafoam green label deep creep creeping oil. They tend to get pretty stuck if they have been on a while. A little anti seize helps on install.

Is it OK to drive with a bad O2 sensor?

Can I Drive My Car With A Bad Oxygen Sensor? We recommend against driving with a bad O2 sensor as the powertrain is not running on the correct fuel mixture. While it may perform fine in the beginning, if your engine is running rich and using too much fuel it might begin to clog the catalytic converter.

Is it worth fixing an O2 sensor?

Those symptoms could also be indications of other problems, but the EPA says that replacing a bad oxygen sensor can improve fuel economy by as much as 40 percent, so clearly that is one place to look if your vehicle develops a greater thirst for gas.

How do I know if it’s my catalytic converter or O2 sensor?

To check if it’s a clogged cat versus a bad oxygen sensor (when you don’t have a check engine light), grab a vacuum gauge. Connect the gauge to an intake manifold vacuum line. Start the engine, let it idle, and check the reading on the gauge. This is your baseline vacuum.

Do I have to replace all 4 O2 sensors?

Do I need to replace all of the sensors at once? It is best to replace O2 sensors in pairs. For example, if you replace the downstream left sensor, you should also replace the downstream right.

How many miles do O2 sensors last?

Generally, oxygen (O2) sensors last about 30,000-to-50,000 miles if you have an older car. Newer sensors can go 100,000 miles before they need to be replaced. University Auto Repair lists six signs below that your vehicle’s oxygen sensor is dying.

Can I drive if I need an O2 sensor?

No. The O2 sensor is needed by the fuel injection computer to determine the amount of fuel to deliver to the cylinders. Without it, the engine may run rich which wastes fuel, pollutes, and will damage the (expensive) catalytic converter.