See the top FAQ thread and then the O2 sensor post if you haven't already. That's all I have to share.

But you are not in for a fun time regardless.

You CAN cut the wires close to the sensor (thus not have to uncouple the sensor plug) and then splice in new ones, but that isn't my first choice to remedy the situation. IF you choose that, just make sure to research as to which COLOR wires are to be used / coupled to the new sensor.

 

Thank you Max, I dug into the FAQ page and found your photos from previous discussions super helpful prior to starting. I was hoping maybe there was something I might have missed in a discussion that could solve separating those stubborn connectors but there's just no better way around it. I understand why some owners may cut the wires and solder new sensors in place, but this Suzuki deserves the best so I'm determined to get my new O2 sensors in without cutting anything. Back at it again today, I'll post any solutions and follow up once I get the job done. 😅

 

Bear-hug the bell housing from below and work the connectors from feel, while you visualize their appearance from those pics. It may take several tries.

 

Will do. I can press in on the tab, but it's so difficult to pull down on the connector while doing both tasks. It would be super helpful if I could get two hands on the connector at the same time while underneath but I'll do what I can. As someone else posted in another discussion, I wonder how Suzuki dealer techs handled this project...

 

Unfortunately there is no easy solution, the last 2, I performed surgery and cut to sensors off, leaving a long tail attached to engine, then solder and heat shrink the replacement..

The heater are the 2 common coloured wires ( no specify direction).. one is a signal the other a ground..

 

Have you considered unbolting the brackets to get better access?

 

Have you considered unbolting the brackets to get better access?

In theory feasible. But in reality nearly impossible.

Engine rear view:

 

Alright alright, update time. I got em! GV is running happy as ever, and no CEL after a drive cycle, all monitors set.

I wondered if I could remove the bracket but there was no way to get a positive lock on the nut with a socket from above or below. I ended up creating a stupid method to release the connectors, but it worked!

I used a 90° angle pick/ hook after removing the battery and could get access to the Bank 2 Sensor 1 connector to get leverage on the release tab. From there, I just needed some weight to pull down on the connector. So I used an old diving weight, ran some trimmer cord through it and centered it so it could hang on the wires of the 02 sensor between the connector and sensor itself. With the weight suspended under the car, I went in from the top and used the 90° angle pick to PUSH INWARD on the lower part of the connector (red arrow, photo below) which separates the connector from the bracket. The weight lowered the connector into view after it separated from the bracket. At this point you can see the sensor connector. Using the angle pick or even your thumb, pull OUTWARD on the small clip at the top end of the connector and it will separate from the wiring harness. Took me about 15 minutes out and in for Bank 2 Sensor 1 replacement. See old vs new sensor comparison below.

For Bank 1, I also found it easier to access the connector from above. It helps if you can hold the throttle cable a few inches out of the way. The auto trans dipstick makes it a little tough to reach, but once you know how to release the tab, just use an angle pick and save your knuckles. If you're under the car, I think Bank 1 has a little more room to see and access the connector than Bank 2 did. Reaching around the catalytic converter makes Bank 2 Sensor 1 hard to access and it's hardly visible which is why I approached both sensors from the top.

Thank you everyone for your input, ideas, and photos! I was starting to see why cutting the wires and soldering new sensors could be the better solution, but if you use an angle pick and some weights it can be done right without having to cut and solder. I'd be happy to post more photos or clarify if anyone needs me to.

 

Well done!

 

Thanks! Hopefully this can save everyone some time in the future. It took me longer to write up my process in my last post than it took me to replace the sensor. 😂

 

Well done..

 

THAT is a handy trick.