Nox sensor carbon deposition treatment and cleaning overview

In many parts of the automobile, the NOx Sensor plays a crucial role. However, with the increase of use time, the NOx Sensor is likely to have carbon deposition problems, affecting its normal working performance. Today, we will take a detailed look at the processing methods and cleaning skills of carbon accumulation in NOx Sensors.

Once the NOx Sensor accumulates carbon, the sensitivity of the sensor will be reduced, and the measurement data will be inaccurate. This may cause the vehicle's emission control system to malfunction, increase exhaust emissions, not only causing pollution to the environment, but also may cause the vehicle to fail the annual inspection. In addition, carbon accumulation may also affect the performance of the engine, resulting in reduced power, increased fuel consumption and other problems.

There are usually several reasons for carbon accumulation in NOx Sensors, like  the fuel quality is poor: low-quality fuel may contain more impurities, which will produce carbon accumulation after combustion, and these carbon deposits will adhere to the NOx Sensors;

Incomplete engine combustion: In the combustion process of the engine, if the combustion is incomplete, it will also produce a large amount of carbon deposition, which will affect the NOx Sensor;

Driving at low speed for a long time: the vehicle is driving at low speed for a long time, and the working temperature of the engine is low, which can easily lead to insufficient fuel combustion, resulting in carbon deposition.

NOx sensors contain precision electronic components and chemically sensitive elements; using acidic or alkaline cleaning agents may erode these delicate layers and damage critical parts such as the probe, thereby compromising both accuracy and response time of the sensor.

It is advisable to gently wipe the sensor with clean water or non-corrosive soapy water, followed by thorough rinsing and air drying.

Additionally, prolonged use of the NOx sensor leads to carbon buildup on its probe; however, one should refrain from using abrasive materials like brushes for removal since even minor scratches or wear can adversely affect the functionality of the sensor.Instead, a clean cloth or gloves can be used for gentle wiping.