The knock sensors (KS) produce an AC signal when specific frequencies are detected. When the engine operates, the powertrain control module (PCM) learns a minimum and maximum frequency of noise of normal engine operation. The KS system monitors both knock sensors in order to determine if knock is present. If the KS system determines that excessive knock is present the PCM retards the spark timing based on the signals from the KS system. The PCM then retards the timing until no knock is present. When the PCM detects a frequency that is less than or more than a defined range, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0327 will set for a failure in knock sensor (1) which is located on bank 1 on the drivers side of the engine or DTC P0332 will set for a failure in knock sensor (2) which is located on bank 2 on the passenger side of the engine.
• | DTCs P0117, P0118, P0125, P1114, P1115, P1120, P1220, or P1221 are not set. |
• | The engine speed is between 1,600-3,000 RPM. |
• | The manifold absolute pressure (MAP) is less than 45 kPa (13.3 in hg). |
• | The engine coolant temperature (ECT) is more than 60°C (140°F). |
• | The engine run time is more than 20 seconds. |
• | The ignition voltage more than 10 volts. |
The PCM determines that this frequency is less than or more than the expected amount for 3 seconds or more.
• | The control module illuminates the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) on the second consecutive ignition cycle that the diagnostic runs and fails. |
• | The control module records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The first time the diagnostic fails, the control module stores this information in the Failure Records. If the diagnostic reports a failure on the second consecutive ignition cycle, the control module records the operating conditions at the time of the failure. The control module writes the operating conditions to the Freeze Frame and updates the Failure Records. |
• | The control module turns OFF the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) after 3 consecutive ignition cycles that the diagnostic runs and does not fail. |
• | A current DTC, Last Test Failed, clears when the diagnostic runs and passes. |
• | A history DTC clears after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles, if no failures are reported by this or any other emission related diagnostic. |
• | Clear the MIL and the DTC with a scan tool. |
Check the knock sensor for proper installation. A knock sensor that is loose or over torqued may cause either DTC to set.
For an intermittent, refer to Intermittent Conditions .
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
This verifies the malfunction is present.
This test will isolate the knock sensor from the rest of the circuit.
Tapping on the engine block near the appropriate knock sensor will simulate an engine knock.
Step | Action | Values | Yes | No | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Schematic Reference: Engine Controls Schematics | ||||||||||
1 | Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check-Engine Controls? | -- | Go to Step 2 | |||||||
Important: If an engine knock can be heard, repair the engine mechanical condition before proceeding with this diagnostic.
Does the scan tool indicate that this diagnostic failed this ignition? | -- | Go to Step 3 | Go to Diagnostic Aids | |||||||
Is the resistance of the knock sensor within the specified range? | 93-107 Kohms | Go to Step 4 | Go to Step 6 | |||||||
Important: DO NOT tap on plastic engine components. Is any signal indicated on the DMM while tapping on the engine block near the knock sensor? | -- | Go to Step 5 | Go to Step 6 | |||||||
5 |
Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 9 | Go to Step 7 | ||||||
6 | Replace the knock sensor. Refer to Knock Sensor 1 Replacement or Knock Sensor 2 Replacement . Did you complete the replacement? | -- | Go to Step 9 | -- | ||||||
7 |
Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 9 | Go to Step 8 | ||||||
8 | Replace the PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement . Did you complete the replacement? | -- | Go to Step 9 | -- | ||||||
9 |
Does the DTC run and pass? | -- | Go to Step 10 | Go to Step 2 | ||||||
10 | Use a scan tool, in order to observe the stored information, Capture Info. Does the scan tool display any DTCs that you have not diagnosed? | -- | System OK |