Will a Oxygen Sensor Stop a Car from Running?

Driving with a faulty O2 sensor means the computer won't be getting the correct reading of the mixture and hence it won't be able to adjust the air-fuel mixture properly. But if your engine starts and runs, and can stay running, it's drivable.

What happens to a car when the oxygen sensor is bad?

If your vehicle has a bad oxygen sensor, it could run irregularly or sound rough when it idles. A faulty oxygen sensor can impact your engine's timing, combustion intervals, and other essential functions. You could also notice stalling or slow acceleration.

Can an O2 sensor cause a car not to start?

The O2 sensor will not cause the no start. The no start can be caused by the fuel pump or the ignition system. You should check the engine for spark and fuel pressure, when it is not turning on to help narrow the problem down.