325i '93 FAILED THE SMOG TEST...WHAT DO I DO

[eamanbigboy]

My Beloved Beemer Did Not Pass The California Smog Inspection Test Due To High Ppm Of Hydrocarbons And No...need Help...what Do I Do Now...took To A Mechanic Said Either My O2 Sensor Or My Cat Converter Is The Problem...someone Help Me If They've Had Similar Problem..thanks A Milion

[PJ Steamboat]

This is a common problem with 325’s. Make sure you have driven the car for at least 20 minutes before you have it tested. The cats need to be thoroughly warmed up before they start working properly.

[Storamin]

Chances are it's the o2 sensor, it's ~70$ at autohauz and is not too difficult to install.

When mine failed, it failed for the same reason. I replaced the o2 sensor and that fixed the problem.

[morientesfan910]

Hi all, new to the site and love it, you all helped me out an i appreciate it, and this is my first post so hear it goes: when my volvo failed smog we paid a fortune for new cats an it was a pain. then when my bimmer failed, a good friend an knowledgable mechanic said just get a new o2 sensor, that it is usally the case. I also live in Northern California if that helps