Honda Passport oxygen sensors: upstream vs downstream and fitment by year
Which Passport do you have?
| Model years | Engine | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1994–1997 | 2.6L four-cylinder or 3.2L V6 | Built by Isuzu, a twin of the Isuzu Rodeo |
| 1998–2002 | 3.2L V6 | Second Isuzu-built generation |
| 2019–2025 | 3.5L V6 | Honda-built, related to the Pilot |
| 2026 on | 3.5L V6 | Current generation |
No Passport was sold for the 2003–2018 model years. A listing that spans those years, such as 2000–2007 or 2007–2023, is covering other vehicles in that range. Parts for 1994–2002 Passports are often listed under the Isuzu Rodeo too.
Upstream vs downstream
- Upstream (sensor 1) sits before the catalytic converter and controls fueling. On many newer engines it is a wideband air-fuel ratio sensor, which is not interchangeable with an ordinary oxygen sensor.
- Downstream (sensor 2) sits after the catalytic converter and checks that the converter is working.
- Banks. A V6 has two cylinder banks, each with its own sensors. Fault codes name the bank and sensor, for example "bank 1 sensor 2".
On the sideways-mounted V6 of the 2019-on Passport, "front" and "rear" in a title usually mean the front or rear cylinder bank, not upstream or downstream. Check the listing for both.
What the current listings say
The table reads each listing title for the model years, engine, position and part number the seller states. It is rebuilt every time the listings are checked.
Many titles also name the Pilot, Odyssey, Ridgeline, CR-V or Acura models. Those that never mention the Passport are flagged. Shared fitment is the seller's claim, so confirm it with the part number.
Signs of a failing oxygen sensor
- Check engine light with an oxygen-sensor code. P0135 and P0141 are heater circuit faults for bank 1 sensor 1 and sensor 2.
- A lean code such as P0171 is more often a vacuum leak or an airflow problem than a bad sensor.
- Lower fuel economy, a rough idle, or a failed emissions test
Read the code with a scan tool before buying. It tells you which sensor to replace.
Before you buy
- Model year and engine: 3.2L (1994–2002) and 3.5L (2019 on) sensors are different parts.
- Position: upstream or downstream, and which bank.
- Type: a wideband air-fuel ratio sensor or an ordinary oxygen sensor.
- Part number, connector and wire length: compare them with your old sensor or a sensor catalog.
- Kits: a 4-sensor kit only helps if your engine has four sensors and they all need replacing.
Fitting
Let the exhaust cool, unplug the connector and use an oxygen sensor socket. Many new sensors come with anti-seize already on the threads. Keep it off the sensor tip. Route the wiring away from the exhaust, clear the codes and drive normally so the system can recheck. If you are not sure, use a repair shop.
FAQ
How many oxygen sensors does a Honda Passport have?
It depends on the model year and engine. Look up your year and engine in a parts catalog, or ask a Honda dealer with your VIN. A fault code tells you which sensor has failed.
Are upstream and downstream oxygen sensors interchangeable?
No. The upstream sensor controls fueling and the downstream sensor checks the catalytic converter. They often differ in type, connector and wire length, so match the position given in the listing.
Can I use a Pilot, Odyssey or Ridgeline sensor on a 2019-on Passport?
These models share Honda's 3.5L V6, and some sensors are the same part. Not all are, so match the part number for your model year and position.
Do oxygen sensors for a 1998–2002 Passport fit the Isuzu Rodeo?
The Isuzu-built Passport is a twin of the Isuzu Rodeo, so sellers often list parts for both. Check the part number and model year before you buy.