Have a P2626 error code on a 2007 Mini and searching around on the procedure to access and replace the pre-cat sensor has me confused. There is one post on this forum from about a year ago that shows the sensor clearly accessible on top of a heat shield. Not so with this motor; certainly not something that could be removed in 30 min using a 20mm open wrench as they did.

Mine appears behind the oil filter assembly on a vertical exhaust pipe, inset a few inches. It appears that one must remove the heat shielding to access the sensor as I am not sure some of the offset sockets with the cutout will reach. Ill try to attach an image - the picture makes it look more accessible than it seems to be.

Does anyone have some advice on replacing this sensor?

Also, it is not clear to me how to separate the connector - it appears to slide rather than pull, but I am not sure how to release it.

 

My '07 MCS was modified 3 years ago, losing the heat shields and both cats. So, memory being what it is, this looks like a "Justa" --- no turbo, OR the pic is of the sensor located between the two cats.

Suggest you invest in a Bentley Service Manual for help in repairing your Mini.

 

I am trying to figure out if it is something I can tackle. Sure the manual will be nice to have and I hope to get one soon - but I want to resolve this sooner. The sensor is set well into the heat shield so I suppose the heat shield must come lose. I don't see how the sensor removal tool will work.

 

It's really an easy job if you use an 02 sensor socket
http://www.waymotorworks.com/oxygen-sensor-socket.html

should take less than 10min

 

Unless the socket is really long, I don't think it will reach the sensor without removing the vertical heat shield. Contrary to the It looks like it will be easier to reach from below - but again if the heat shielding is removed, or loosened and moved away from the manifold.

Maybe I am wrong, but I don't want to start and get stuck. I haver done exhaust systems on BMWs before, so it is not entirely new, but this is probably a bit more tight space than I am used to.

What threw me is that the only detailed post I could locate is also from a 2007, but the sensor location is on top - and looks a lot easier to access:https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...h-harness.html

I appreciate any insights and will get the proper tool if it will reach. Thank you

 

The above referenced socket should work OK, for the sensor you show.

As for the connector, you should be able to figure out how to disconnect / connect the cable when you have a new one in your hand.

Suggest you locate the other O2 sensor, to be sure you're replacing the correct one.