Code 44 - Part of a Larger problem?

[lsawicki]

I just had a rather expensive fix up to take care of the laundry list of problem I had on my 1993 range rover with 142k miles on it. It ran perfectly (minus the slightly rough idle) for a good month and a half until now. After some erratic idle and stalling, the check engine light came on and the diagnostic screen gave me code 44 (left 02 sensor). I've had this code pop up almost exactly one year ago, about 10,000 miles ago, and I replaced both the 02 sensors myself and the problem went away. I've narrowed it down to a couple of problems:



1) Wiring is dirty. I know it is not disconnected because I checked just now. A few squirts of CRC electronics cleaner will do it.

2) Sensor is bad, and after 10k should be replaced. I would probably replace both of them.

3). The problem is larger...a vacuum leak perhaps?

Anyways, I will probably do #1 first, and I would like some input from you guys. Do 02 sensors go bad after 10k?

P.S The check engine went on after towing two sea doos to and from the lake, but the rough idle/dying happened two days ago. I don't think this is from towing, but from my lessons with my rangie, ANYTHING is possible.

Thanks!

[OkieRover]

Check your connections first. If it came unplugged, wire burned through you would get the code.
Make sure you have good connectivity, clear the code and see if it pops up again.
I don't know when O2 sensors fail. Usually you just look for the codes or a 2 MPG drop in gas mileage. So about every 2 or 3 years I would think.
If you replace it do them in pairs. Thats kind of a given.