Hello all. I recently had failed the emission test, and it was due to my o2 sensor going bad. The code I received was P0135 02 Sensor Heater Circuit (bank 1 Sensor 1). After looking at prices to have it installed, (about 300$+), I decided to do it myself. I went and bought a Bosch universal O2 sensor, and the special socket I needed. Then after some thought , I decided to call up some local auto repair stores to see if they would install it for me. First place I went to said it was the wrong type, and to get the OE version, which made me think that they just didn't want to splice the wiring and do the extra work. I brought it to another shop, and there once they saw it was a universal type, told me that they used to install them but out of say 200, 150 would fail right after the installation and the customer would come right back. I have a 2001 Grand Vitara XL-7 LTD ed. I wanted to know if anybody had experience with these universal O2 sensors, and if they are worth it or not. If its just that the repair shops don't want to mess with the extra work and splicing wires, Ill end up doing it myself. If it turns out that these universal sensors are as cheap as the one tech said, ill gladly return it and get the OE type connector. Any help greatly appreciated 

They're fine. I've used one in one bank on my V6 and I'm just about to do the other bank. I also have one in my 2.0 cyl and I've put a few other people on to them , all with success. They are a lot cheaper to buy than a Suzuki badged part (especially when you know someone at Bosch  ) I just used a 22mm wrench and they come with instructions on how to join them. It's no big deal. Also think how many vehicles have these Bosch O2 sensors as standard, millions the only difference with the genuine one is that it doesn't have the plug on it. Bosch do them with plugs for other vehicles just not ours. One more thing, there are a couple of variations to the sensors and if they used the wrong style then of course it may not work. The numbers on the packaging are as follows, LS 07  -  0 258 986 507-36Y. The Bosch part number on my invoice is listed as # 0258986507775.

Does anyone have any advice about how to disconnect the electrical connectors for the oxygen sensors on a GV? They are between the block and the firewall attached to a metal bracket. The female part of the connector is attached to the sensor. I have spent several hours poking with tiny screwdrivers trying to release the connector to no avail. It doesn't want to come free from the metal bracket either. If I could see what I was working on I could figure it out but it is buried behind the engine where you can't even get a glimpse of it without a mirror.

Any help would be appreciated!

Used the Bosch universa lO2's on our Miata and 300ZX. Work fine and have been in for ove 3 years
Not sure about the Zooks but this little 22mm crowsfoot wrench worked like a charm.
When your doing the splicing, strip the insulation off for about an inch. Twist the wire and fold it back, this gives the butt connector twice the material to crimp to. Don't forget to slip the shrink tube on the wire before doing the splice.

Hey.  Earlier this spring, my engine light stayed on.  I have a 2001 XL-7 Grand Vitara Limited and had no problems whats so ever after eight years! 

My mechanic had to replace two sensors, a heater one and oxygen one.  Cost, little over $500.00. 

I'm not technically incline, so..hehe.  And My inspection sticker expires on 10/17/09 so I took my truck this past friday 10/9/09 and it passed with flying colors!

Never failed inspection yet, and never had any mechanical problems at all.  I even have all of my original light bulbs, inside and out.

Been blessed I say.