P0325

DTC P0325 Knock Sensor Circuit (1 Of 2):

DTC P0325 Knock Sensor Circuit (2 Of 2):

Knock Sensor Circuit:

CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION
The Vehicle Control Module (VCM) uses the Knock Sensors in order to detect engine detonation. This detection allows the VCM to retard the Ignition Control (IC) spark timing based on the Knock Sensor (KS) signal the VCM receives. The circuitry within the knock sensor pulls down the VCM-supplied 5 volt signal, so that under a no knock condition the signal on the KS circuit measures about 1.3 volts. The knock sensors produce an AC signal that rides on the 1.3 volts DC. The signal amplitude and frequency are dependent upon the amount of the knock being experienced

The VCM contains a replaceable Knock Sensor (KS) module. The KS module contains the circuitry that allows the VCM to utilize the KS signal and to diagnose the KS sensors and circuitry. If the KS module is missing or faulty which causes a continuous knock condition, the VCM sets this DTC.

CONDITIONS FOR SETTING THE DTC

^ The DTC P0327 is not active.
^ Engine run time is at least 120 seconds.
^ System voltage is greater than 10 volts but is no more than 17.1 volts.
^ The VCM detects a problem with the KS module circuitry that causes the knock to be indicated continuously.
^ The above conditions met for up to 0.5 second.

ACTION TAKEN WHEN DTC SETS

^ The VCM will not illuminate the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (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 likely to occur. The calculated value will vary based on the engine speed and load.

CONDITIONS FOR CLEARING THE MIL/DTC

^ A history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles have occurred without a fault.
^ The scan tool Clear Info function or disconnecting the VCM battery feed can clear the DTC.

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 Nm (14 lbs.ft.).

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 occurs. This may assist in diagnosing the condition.

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

2. This step ensures that the fault is present.
5. This step checks for an improperly installed KS module