O2 Sensor Question

Please excuse this long post, but I am in need of advice, other than burn it and file an insurance claim.

I will be trading in my 2014 Expedition 4wd, 80,000 miles, on a Transit based camper van when it arrives in two months. The deal is made and prices settled.

Suddenly the check engine light appears. My ScanGuage reads P2626 code which Google search says “O2 Sensor Pumping Current Trim Circuit/Open Bank 1 Sensor 1”. My Ford dealer quoted “around $350 to replace sensor and $189 for diagnostic, when do you want to come in?”

I have checked the fuses related to the ECM and all are intact and have cleared the code, but the check light comes back on with 20 to 30 minutes of driving. If the light is on when I turn over the truck to the camper dealer, I think it will change the deal.

I took it to an independent ASE certified mechanic who, over the phone quoted $150 plus the part. He ran a diagnostic and said he was not familiar with the term “Pumping Current Trim Circuit” code explanation. He suggested I take to Ford dealer, and also said he heard an exhaust leak on the driver side. He thought the exhaust leak may also relate to the code. He was uncertain replacing the sensor only would stop triggering the check light.

I know this model is known for developing a manifold leak which is very expensive to repair.

I may be willing, but not happy, to spend $200 to $300 for a sensor replacement because at 74, with mildly arthritic hands and without access to a lift, I do not want to attempt the replacement myself.

Anyone’s considered advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

I'm generally opposed to throwing parts at a problem before diagnosing it, but since you're not doing this work yourself you'll probably pay as much for the diagnostics as you would to replace the sensor. I would probably replace it and go from there. Really though, it should only be a 1/2 hour job with a $50 part. Maybe a $75 part with shop markup.

A mechanic who can read the oxygen sensor outputs on his scan tool can immediately tell if a sensor, wiring or exhaust is bad. It's a five minute diagnosis. If you want to do it yourself, you can get a good scanner and learn the procedure on YouTube. If you need an oxygen sensor replaced or a wire fixed, it's not a big deal. Sounds like you need a mechanic who knows how to diagnose an oxygen sensor.

Thanks for your response, I have watched several Youtube videos on this, and agree it is an easy process. I have been working on vehicles since I was a teenager, however, I do not think it would be that easy for me on my back under the truck, given my current physical limitations.
Could you help me better understand what "Pumping Current Trim Circuit/Open" actually relates to? What is the Pumping Current Trim Circuit?