O2 sensor diagnosis?

1997 LAND ROVER DEFENDER
150,000 MILES • 4.0L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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TWOZZIE
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1997 Defender failed CA smog due to rich mixture at idle and gave code P0176. Ran live diagnostics on the sensors and have results but cannot determine if they are ok or not.
Dec 4, 2025 at 5:25 PM
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STRAILER
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So it looks like you may have a fuel injector that is stuck open or leaking, I would remove all spark plugs and look for the one that is dark/black in color, this will be the cylinder that is having the issue.

P0176 on this model - Fuel Composition Sensor / Fuel Mixture Too Rich at Idle.

Please go over this guide as well, it shows what all can create a rich mixture code.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/why-an-automotive-engine-will-run-rich

Please upload an image or a short video in your response of the spark plugs so I can see, be sure to keep them in order.

Dec 5, 2025 at 11:40 AM
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TWOZZIE
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Hi Ken, first off thank you so much.
Plugs out as per pictured. Only one, cylinder 8, looks black with gunk on it.
Dec 6, 2025 at 12:39 PM
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STRAILER
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Alright! yep #8 does not look good, lets do a compression test to make sure the cylinder is okay, then we can replace the fuel injector which should fix the problem. Here is a guide to help.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

Let me know what the reading is.
Dec 7, 2025 at 11:28 AM
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TWOZZIE
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Ok, need to get a pressure gauge and the injector is on order. :)
Dec 7, 2025 at 12:04 PM
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STRAILER
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Nice!, you can rent a gauge set for free from AutoZone to do the compression test.
Dec 8, 2025 at 7:51 AM
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TWOZZIE
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Ken, installed new plugs and air filter. Poured a can of injector cleaner in the tank and it passed smog with flying colors today. Appreciate the help.
Cheers, Ewan
Dec 17, 2025 at 4:21 PM
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STRAILER
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Yes!! Please use 2CarPros anytime we are here to help. Can you please leave us a rating?

https://g.page/r/CZdEnyCkGgm6EB0/review

and

https://www.sitejabber.com/reviews/2carpros.com

Thank you :)
Dec 18, 2025 at 9:39 AM