There is no such thing as a generic oxygen sensor that fits every car.
For example, the Bosch "Universal" oxygen sensor is actually 12
distinct lines (maybe more now) of sensors matched to the specific
vehicle application. People have run into problems installing a
"universal" sensor for Nissan in a Honda as I searched on the topic.
That's a no no. Bosch's universal line will provide detailed
instruction on how to splice on the old connector with the Posi-Lok
connector.

Came across the catalyst efficiency code on an Accord that sometimes
turns on the MIL and often stores its first tripping in memory when
there was no MIL. Decided to change out the OEM Denso thimble sensor
with a $89 Bosch planar sensor (OEM plug, not the universal one for
$79). Code disappeared for two months now. So I wonder if it was the
primary sensor all along.

http://www.boschautoparts.com/Products/OxygenSensors

Dump the Denso sensor at 60K miles I'd say (most cats reportedly go bad
around 80K). Denso may be the source of the problem. NTK however came
from the same company that makes NGK. Could be a better bet than Denso.
But Bosch's new generation of planar sensors are excellent.

On the web, the Bosch secondary sensor for the Accord with OEM plug
looks like a thimble. But the universal line for the secondary looks
like the new planar sensor (with vent holes only at the tip). If there
is a need to change that secondary sensor I'll select the Bosch
"universal" line specificly made for the Accord just to get the planar
sensor.


Nasty wrote:
> "High Tech Misfit" <me@privacy.net> wrote in message
> news:a5kivibdtivs$.dlg@hightech.misfit...
> > Nasty wrote:
> >
> >> I bought a generic O2 sensor for my 2000 Accord EX. The sensor heater
> >> wires
> >> are the same color, white on the old one, black on the new one. Is the
> >> heater circuit positive / negative sensitive?
> >>
> >> I installed it using the old connector and get an almost immediate CEL
> >> with
> >> P1162.
> >>
> >> Thanks.
> >>
> >> Jim
> >
> > Generic O2 sensors won't work. Bite the bullet and get an OEM part.
>
> I didn't know that (obviously <sf>). Do you know why not? Just curious.
>
> I guess I'll head for the auto parts store in the morning, thanks.