1998 Ford Contour Code P1151

1998 FORD CONTOUR
111,000 MILES • 2.6L • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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JBRYAN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I looked up code and leads to an O2 sensor problem. I'm not a mechanic nut can I fix this problem myself by changing the sensors. I can visit my local autozone to pick up replacement parts but is this a problem that I can fix myself or would I have to take it into a mechanic. Attempting to save money I don't have. If I have to take the car in to be fix, what is the approx cost. I am failing my emissions inspection. Thanks
Oct 28, 2014 at 8:02 AM
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WRENCHTECH
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 20,760 POSTS
It could be a bad sensor or it could be a lean running engine. Some testing would have to be performed to find out which.
Oct 28, 2014 at 9:23 AM
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JBRYAN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I appreciate your response. Thank you so much. Can you tell me what does a lean running engine mean, sorry I am attempting to educate myself on this.
Oct 29, 2014 at 12:04 AM
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WRENCHTECH
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 20,760 POSTS
The computer is engineered to maintain a 14.7:1 air/fuel ratio at all times. The code is telling you that the computer is reaching it's adaptive limits trying to maintain that. Too much air, not enough fuel being mixed.
Oct 29, 2014 at 12:41 AM
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