Bosch 16738 Oxygen Sensor - Downstream or Downstream Rear

Bosch OE Oxygen Sensor for Volkswagen

Bosch Actual OE Oxygen Sensor 16738 is a narrow-band heated replacement sensor built for precise air-fuel ratio feedback to the ECU. It is a specific-fit, threaded sensor with a 4-wire harness and oblong male connector, made for downstream and downstream rear locations on select Volkswagen Beetle, Golf, Golf City, Jetta, and Jetta City applications.

• Brand: Bosch Actual OE Oxygen Sensor
• Part number: 16738
• Narrow-band heated oxygen sensor
• Specific fit for select Volkswagen applications
• 4-wire design with included wiring harness
• Threaded mounting type, 18 mm thread size
• 22 mm hex size for service removal
• Oblong male connector with blade terminals
• Metal housing for high-temperature and vibration exposure

OE-Style Sensor Design

Bosch 16738 uses a switching-type narrow-band design to deliver accurate oxygen content feedback during closed-loop operation. Bosch developed this sensor line from its original OE oxygen sensor technology and later planar narrowband designs, focusing on faster light-off, stable lambda control, and consistent heater performance under demanding thermal conditions. This part cross-references 06A906262BM and 06A906262CN for the same application.

Vehicle Fitment

• Fits 2009-2010 Volkswagen Beetle, downstream, located after secondary converter; Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.
• Fits 2005-2007 Volkswagen Beetle, downstream, located after secondary converter; Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.
• Fits 2001-2010 Volkswagen Beetle, downstream, Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.
• Fits 1998 Volkswagen Beetle, downstream, Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.
• Fits 2010 Volkswagen Beetle, downstream rear, Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.
• Fits 2008 Volkswagen Beetle, downstream rear, Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.
• Fits 2007-2010 Volkswagen Golf City, downstream, Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.
• Fits 2006-2009 Volkswagen Beetle, downstream, fitted downstream of catalytic converter; Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.
• Fits 2007-2009 Volkswagen Jetta City, downstream, Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.
• Fits 2001-2006 Volkswagen Golf, downstream, Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.
• Fits 2001-2005 Volkswagen Jetta, downstream, Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.
• Fits 2004-2005 Volkswagen Jetta, downstream, located after secondary converter; Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.
• Fits 1999 Volkswagen Beetle, downstream, to chassis # 1C..X..460 000; Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.
• Fits 1999 Volkswagen Golf, downstream, to chassis # 1J-X-697 002; Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.
• Fits 1999 Volkswagen Jetta, downstream, to chassis # 9M-X-085 414; Actual OE Oxygen Sensor.

Common Replacement Uses

• Restores oxygen sensor signal accuracy for downstream fuel control
• Addresses check engine light concerns tied to sensor response or heater circuit faults
• Helps correct unstable closed-loop operation after sensor aging
• Supports emissions system performance on Volkswagen Beetle, Golf, and Jetta models
• Replaces a worn sensor exposed to heat, vibration, and exhaust contamination

Installation Notes

Confirm the downstream or downstream rear location before ordering, since this Bosch 16738 application is specific to the listed Volkswagen fitments. Verify the 18 mm thread size, 4-wire configuration, and connector style against the original sensor, and inspect the exhaust bung threads before installation. Use proper oxygen sensor service tools to avoid damaging the housing or wiring harness.

Quality Assurance

Bosch backs this oxygen sensor with more than five decades of OE development in emissions control sensing. The sensor uses advanced ceramic elements, controlled heater operation, and high-temperature-resistant materials to maintain consistent output in demanding exhaust conditions.