I had my 02 SLE up on wheel rams trying to replace the rear o2 sensor, I noticed that there is a heat shield that is riveted on the frame preventing me from being able to unplug the old sensor and remove it. How in the heck do I get to the clip for the o2 sensor that is behind the wall of sheet metal that is riveted on? I have heard about the simulators, but I lost my receipt for this sensor so that is not an option. I know this is the issue, I have my own code reader and checked my codes. Am I suppose to cut the wire, and hook up a new one? Please help, I am stuck on this one!

Usually the connector is able to be wiggled out and then it gives you barely enough slack to hook up a new sensor.

Was your sensor bad?

If it'* riveted on you will have to drill them out. There should have been screws there. When you put it back on use self tapping screws.

Yes my sensor is bad. My gas mileage is fine, but it keeps doing that idling thing I have read so much about. Plus it keeps making my engine light go off, and it is really annoying. How long of a self tapping screw should I use?