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
Replacing the NOX sensors
Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by gekko1323, Oct 14, 2025 at 2:59 AM.
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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.
Diesel Dave, gekko1323, CrappieJunkie and 2 others Thank this. -
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 BoardLast edited: Oct 14, 2025 at 7:51 AM
JonJon78, Diesel Dave, gentleroger and 1 other person Thank this. -
Diesel Dave Thanks this.
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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.gekko1323 Thanks this. -
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Diesel Dave and gekko1323 Thank this.
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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.JB7 Thanks this. -
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.gekko1323 and Diesel Dave Thank this.
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