GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Object Number: 190383  Size: SF
KS/Ckp - Comp Loc Figure
Engine Controls Schematics
OBD II Symbol Description Notice
Handling ESD Sensitive Parts Notice

Circuit Description

The control module contains a removable knock sensor (KS) module which receives the knock sensor input. The knock sensor signal input is filtered by this module before it is input to the controls module. Spark knock is continuously monitored during engine operation. If knock occurs for longer than a calibrated time, this diagnostic trouble code (DTC) will set.

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • DTC P0327 is not active
    • The engine run time is 120 seconds or greater
    • The system voltage is between 10-17.1 volts

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The VCM detects engine knock for more than 5 seconds.

Action Taken When DTC Sets

    • The VCM will not illuminate the MIL
    • The VCM will store the conditions which were present when the DTC set as a Fail Records data only. This information will not store as Freeze Frame Data.
    • The VCM will use a calculated spark retard value in order to minimize the knock during the conditions when the knock is most likely to occur. The calculated value will vary based on the engine speed and load.

Conditions for Clearing the MIL or DTC

    • The control module turns OFF the MIL after 3 consecutive drive trips when the test has run and passed.
    • A history DTC will clear if no fault conditions have been detected for 40 warm-up cycles. A warm-up cycle occurs when the coolant temperature has risen 22°C (40°F) from the startup coolant temperature and the engine coolant reaches a temperature that is more than 70°C (158°F) during the same ignition cycle.
    • Use a scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.

Diagnostic Aids

Check for the following conditions:

    • A poor connection at the VCM. Inspect the KS module connector for the following conditions:
       - Backed out terminals
       - Broken locks
       - Improperly formed or damaged terminals
    • A damaged or improperly installed KS module. Check for the following items:
       - Bent pins
       - Deformed terminals
       - KS module not completely seated
    • Improper Knock Sensor torque specification. Torque the Knock sensor to 19 N·m (14 lb ft). Refer to

Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

in Cautions and Notices.

Review the Fail Records vehicle mileage since the diagnostic test last failed in order to help determine how often the conditions that caused the DTC to set occur. This may assist in diagnosing the condition.

Test Description

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

  1. This step ensures that the fault is present.

  2. This step checks for an improperly installed Knock Sensor or poor connections.

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

Important: Before clearing the DTCs, use the scan tool in order to record the Freeze Frame and the Failure Records for reference. This data will be lost when the Clear DTC Information function is used.

Was the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check performed?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

2

Important: If you can hear the engine knock, repair the engine mechanical problem before proceeding with this diagnostic.

  1. Operate the engine within the conditions specified in the diagnostic support text Conditions for Setting the DTC.
  2. Using a scan tool, monitor the Specific DTC info for the DTC P0325 until the DTC P0325 test runs.
  3. Observe the test results.

Does the scan tool indicate the DTC P0325 Failed This Ign?

--

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 3

3

  1. Turn ON the ignition leaving the engine off.
  2. Review the scan tool Fail Records data for DTC P0325.
  3. Record the scan tool Fail Records data for DTC P0325.
  4. Operate the vehicle within the Fail Records conditions.
  5. Using a scan tool, monitor the SPECIFIC DTC info for DTC P0325 test runs.

Does the scan tool indicate DTC P0325 test Failed This Ign?

--

Go to Step 4

Go to The Diagnostic Aids

4

  1. Check the KS signal circuit for incorrect routing near the secondary wires.
  2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.

Was a problem found?

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 5

5

  1. Check the KS signal circuit for not being fully seated or for correct installation.
  2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.

Was a problem found?

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 6

6

  1. Replace the Electronic Spark Control module/PROM.
  2. Operate the engine within the conditions specified in the diagnostic supporting text Conditions for Setting the DTC.
  3. Using a scan tool, monitor the Specific DTC info for DTC P0325 until the DTC P0325 test runs.
  4. Observe the test results.

Does the scan tool indicate the DTC P0325 Failed This Ign?

--

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 8

7

  1. Replace the VCM.
  2. Program the VCM. Refer to VCM Replacement/Programming .
  3. Perform the Crankshaft Variation Learn Procedure. Refer to Crankshaft Position System Variation Learn .

Is the action complete?

--

Go to Step 8

--

8

  1. Use the scan tool in order to select the DTC and the Clear DTC Information functions.
  2. Start the engine.
  3. Allow the engine to idle until normal operating temperature is reached.
  4. Select the DTC and the Specific DTC functions.
  5. Enter the DTC number which was set.
  6. Operate the vehicle within the conditions for setting this DTC as specified in the supporting text.

Does the scan tool indicate that this diagnostic ran and passed?

--

Go to Step 9

Go to Step 2

9

Use the scan tool in order to display the Capture Info and the Review Capture Info functions.

Are there any DTCs displayed that have not been diagnosed?

--

Go to The Applicable DTC Table

System OK