Replacing the NOX sensors

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by gekko1323, Oct 14, 2025 at 2:59 AM.

  1. gekko1323

    gekko1323 Road Train Member

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    Good evening folks. My check engine light came on yesterday and gave me a code of SPN 3226 FMI 12. Apparently, my outlet nox sensor is throwing a hissy fit. So I guess I'll replace both of them while I'm at it. I priced them at TEC and they want almost $800 for each one! WTF?

    I will change them out myself, so I'll save some scratch there. But it begs the question: Can I just clean them with carb cleaner and see if this will clear the CEL? I've seen people do this.

    If not, the real question for you guys is: What after market brand should I go with? Which ones are the best? Because there is no way in hell's half acre that I'm paying $1600 for these two sensors.

    I have a new tag line for Volvo: "Volvo, the gift that keeps on giving."

    @nasriza @QUALITYTRUCK
     
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  3. Long FLD

    Long FLD Road Train Member

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    On a Volvo does the computer have to be made aware that sensors were replaced? On my 2017 579 I had to replace NOx sensors and I did it at Peterbilt because they had to tell the ecm that the sensors were new. And it was $600 or so for each sensor back in 2021. But I replaced them once and never had to do it again.
     
  4. JB7

    JB7 Heavy Load Member

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    Aftermarket NOX sensors?? Are they worth it, or should I buy OEM? | TruckersReport.com Trucking Forum | #1 CDL Truck Driver Message Board
    See posts 3,6,13,17.

    Either truck or car a good rule is to use OEM for anything emission related. Ask any shop. Sure some person (not s ahop) will say I used this or that and saved but how long did it last. A tow would wipe out and savings and then some real quick.

    Volvo SPN 3226 FMI 12 (Bad NOx Sensor) | TruckersReport.com Trucking Forum | #1 CDL Truck Driver Message Board
     
    Last edited: Oct 14, 2025 at 7:51 AM
  5. gekko1323

    gekko1323 Road Train Member

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    I know that some programming of the sort has to be done, so I assume that's part of it.
     
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  6. gekko1323

    gekko1323 Road Train Member

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    Thanks for the links. They were very helpful. It seems that Dorman is the one to buy if I go aftermarket. I might try to clean the outlet one first to see if the CEL turns off. Worst case scenario I'll just get the OEMs. But man, those Volvo prices are criminal.
     
  7. BillMot

    BillMot Bobtail Member

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    That code, SPN 3226 FMI 12, is your outlet NOx sensor acting up. You could try cleaning it with carb cleaner, and sometimes it clears the check engine light for a little while, but most of the time it just comes back. These sensors are sensitive, and cleaning rarely fixes the real issue.

    Since you’re swapping them yourself, you’re already saving a lot on labor. For aftermarket options, truckers usually go with Delphi, Skyline, Dinex, or Grizzly Air. They’re reliable, last well, and cost a lot less than OEM: often $250 to $400 per sensor instead of $800.

    Replacing both with a quality aftermarket sensor is the way to go.
     
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  8. gekko1323

    gekko1323 Road Train Member

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    I'll definitely look them up. Are Dorman any good?
     
  9. JB7

    JB7 Heavy Load Member

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    Probably the worst name in parts. Most shops won't touch Dorman if they have a choice. But they have to sometimes because they are available right away versus waiting a few days for OEM.
     
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  10. gekko1323

    gekko1323 Road Train Member

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    Yeah, I went on Reddit and people say they are terrible. I might just go with OEM. Most of the stuff I've read says that Volvos and Macks are extra finicky compared to other trucks when it comes to aftermarket sensors.

    I'm in Odessa TX at the moment and the Volvo place here has them for $588 if I bring in the core.

    I'm also considering getting the OTR Performance tool. I've read glowing reviews about it everywhere.
     
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  11. 062

    062 Road Train Member

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    You want to start soaking them with PB blaster or something now.
    Ask about the core,most are ok with cutting the harness right at the sensor. If so,then get the deepest 22mm socket you can find.
    It wouldn’t hurt to pick up a thread chaser,should be the same as an automotive O2 sensor.
     
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