The Knock Sensor (KS) system detects engine detonation. The PCM retards the spark timing based on the signals from the knock sensors. The knock sensors produce an AC voltage. The knock sensor voltages are an input to the PCM. The amount of AC voltage produced is proportional to the amount of knock.
An operating engine produces a normal amount of engine mechanical vibration (noise). The knock sensors produce an AC voltage signal from this noise. When an engine operates, the PCM learns the minimum and maximum frequency of the noise the engine produces. When the PCM determines that this frequency is less than or greater than the expected amount, a knock sensor DTC will set.
• | Engine operating for greater than 20 seconds. |
• | ECT is greater than 70°C (158°F). |
• | Engine speed is between 1500 and 3500 RPM. |
• | Throttle angle is greater than 20%. |
• | MAP is less than 60 kPa. |
• | System voltage is greater than 10 volts. |
• | The PCM determines that this frequency is less than or greater than the expected amount for less than 1 second. |
• | The PCM illuminates the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) on the second consecutive ignition cycle that the diagnostic runs and fails. |
• | The PCM records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The first time the diagnostic fails, the PCM stores this information in the Failure Records. If the diagnostic reports a failure on the second consecutive ignition cycle, the PCM records the operating conditions at the time of the failure. The PCM writes the conditions to the Freeze Frame and updates the Failure Records. |
• | The PCM turns OFF the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) after 3 consecutive ignition cycles that the diagnostic runs and does not fail. |
• | A last test failed, or current DTC, clears when the diagnostic runs and does not fail. |
• | A history DTC clears after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles, if no failures are reported by this or any other emission related diagnostic. |
• | Use a scan tool in order to clear the MIL and the DTC. |
Check the knock sensor for proper installation. A knock sensor that is loose or over torqued may cause the DTC P0327 to set.
For an intermittent, refer to Symptoms .
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
This verifies the malfunction is present. The scan tool will display DTC Ran=Yes and Pass=Int if the failure is intermittent. This indicates the diagnostic passed this ignition cycle and failed this ignition cycle. At this point the resistance of the knock sensors should be verified to be in the correct range. If the knock sensor resistances are correct, check the KS system wiring connections. When checking the KS system connections, start at the KS system jumper harness connector located behind the intake manifold. Then check the connections at the PCM. Refer to the wiring schematic for the correct connector and terminal. Then check the connections at the appropriate knock sensor. Failure Records data does not include the parameter KS Activity, however other parameters may aid in locating the conditions under which an intermittent occurred.
This test will isolate the Knock Sensor from the rest of the circuit.
Tap on the engine block just below the intake manifold between the timing chain cover and the valley cover.
Step | Action | Value(s) | Yes | No | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Did you perform the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check ? | -- | ||||||||
Important: If an engine knock can be heard, repair the engine mechanical problem before proceeding with this diagnostic.
Does the scan tool indicate that this diagnostic failed this ignition? | -- | Refer to Diagnostic Aids | ||||||||
Is the resistance of the knock sensor within the specified range? | 93-107Kohms | |||||||||
Is any signal indicated on the DMM while tapping on the engine near the Knock Sensor? | -- | |||||||||
5 |
Was a problem found and corrected? | -- | ||||||||
6 |
Was a problem found and corrected? | -- | ||||||||
7 | Replace the Knock Sensor. Refer to Knock Sensor Replacement . Is the action complete? | -- | -- | |||||||
8 | Check the KS signal circuit for a poor terminal connection at the PCM. Was a problem found and corrected? | -- | ||||||||
9 |
Important:: Program the replacement PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module/Throttle Actuator Control Module Replacement . Replace the PCM. Is the action complete? | -- | -- | |||||||
10 |
Does the scan tool indicate that this test ran and passed? | -- | ||||||||
11 | Select the Capture Info option and the Review Info option using the scan tool. Does the scan tool display any DTCs that you have not diagnosed? | -- | Go to the applicable DTC table | System OK |