Car knock sensor function
Car knock sensor — function and troubleshooting
Here you will find useful basic information and important tips relating to knock sensors in vehicles.
The knock sensor monitors the combustion process in the engine. Its signal helps the engine control to prevent knocking combustion and therefore protect the motor/engine control. On this page we will provide you with various information, including how a defective knock sensor becomes noticeable, the causes that may lead to its failure, and how it can be tested in the workshop.
Important safety note
The following technical information and practical tips have been compiled by HELLA in order to provide professional support to vehicle workshops in their day-to-day work. The information provided on this website is intended for suitably qualified personnel only.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CAR KNOCK SENSOR FUNCTION: FUNCTIONAL PRINCIPLE
The knock sensor is located on the outside of the engine block. It is intended to record knocking noise in all engine operating states in order to prevent engine damage.
The knock sensor "listens out for" the structure-borne vibrations from the engine block and converts these into electrical voltage signals. The signals are filtered and evaluated in the control unit. The knocking signal is assigned to respective cylinder. If knocking occurs, the ignition signal for the respective cylinder is adjusted in the "late" direction until knocking combustion no longer occurs.
Knock sensor
FAULTY KNOCK SENSOR: SYMPTOMS
A faulty sensor can manifest itself in different ways through fault detection by the control unit and the resulting emergency program strategy.
Frequent fault symptoms are:
- Engine warning light comes on
- Error code is stored
- Reduced engine power
- Increased fuel consumption
CAUSES FOR FAULTY KNOCK SENSORS: CAUSE OF FAILURE
Failure can be caused by different reasons:
- Internal short circuits
- Breaks in wiring
- Wiring short circuit
- Mechanical damage
- Incorrect mounting
- Corrosion
CHECK THE CAR KNOCK SENSOR: TROUBLESHOOTING
Testing with the multimeter
Check the wiring to the control unit by checking continuity and short circuit to frame for every wire to the control unit plug.
Connect the ohmmeter
Setpoint: <1 Ohm
Connect the ohmmeter between the knock sensor connector and the removed control unit connector. Setpoint: <1 Ohm (circuit diagram required for the pin assignment of the control unit).
Check the pin against ground using an ohmmeter
Check the respective pin at the wiring harness connector against ground using an ohmmeter and with the control unit connector removed. Setpoint: at least 30 MOhm.
Attention:
A connection pin can act as shielding and thus have continuity to ground.
Check with the oscilloscope when the engine is warm
Connect the test probes of the oscilloscope
Connect the test probes of the oscilloscope between the control unit pin for the knock sensor and ground.
Briefly open the throttle valve
The oscillogram must produce a signal with considerably enlarged amplitude.
Signal not clear
If the signal is not clear, tap gently against the engine block near the sensor.
Knocking is not detected
If the knocking is not detected, this indicates a defective sensor or circuit.
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
Observe the tightening torque during assembly. Do not use spring washers or washers.
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