Knock Sensor: Description and Operation

Knock Sensor:

Description
The Knock Sensor (KS) detects abnormal vibration (spark knocking) in the engine. The sensor is mounted in the engine block near the cylinders. The sensor produces an AC output voltage which increases with the severity of the knock. This signal voltage is sent to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM then adjusts the Ignition Control (IC) timing to reduce the spark knock.

The Knock Sensor system has two major components:
1. KS module.
2. Knock Sensor.

Operation

The knock sensor is mounted into the engine block near the cylinders. The knock sensor produces an AC voltage which increases with the severity of the knock. This signal voltage inputs to the PCM. The PCM then adjusts the IC timing to reduce spark knocking.

Circuit Faults
A fault in the KS circuit or module will set a DTC P0325.