Anyone dealt with O2 sensor issues on a 2002 Silverado?

Seeking Help with O2 Sensor Problems

I’ve been having some issues with my 2002 Chevrolet Silverado, specifically with the oxygen (O2) sensor. I’ve noticed that my check engine light has been popping up quite frequently, and after checking the codes, it looks like it’s related to the O2 sensor.

Symptoms I’ve Noticed:

  • Check Engine Light: This light has become a regular guest on my dashboard.
  • Decrease in Fuel Efficiency: My gas consumption has been getting worse lately.
  • Rough Idling: The engine seems to be running a bit rough when idling.

Questions I Have:

  1. Is it common for the O2 sensor to fail in this model?
  2. What are the best replacement options? I’ve seen some aftermarket brands that seem reasonably priced. Any recommendations?
  3. How difficult is it to replace it myself? I have some basic tools and a friend who knows a bit about cars, but is this something a novice can tackle?
  4. Will replacing the O2 sensor fix my other issues, or could there be something else going on?

Any advice, tips, or personal experiences would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance for your help!