Operation

The PCM uses a Knock Sensor (KS) to detect abnormal vibration in the engine (detonation/spark knocking). Mounted in the engine block, under the intake manifold, the knock sensor produces an AC signal at all engine speeds and loads. The PCM then adjusts the spark timing based on the amplitude and frequency of the KS signal.

A knock sensor module is no longer used to diagnose the knock sensor system. The circuitry is integrated into the PCM. The PCM uses the knock sensor signal to calculate an average voltage. Then, the PCM assigns a voltage range above and below the average voltage value. The PCM checks the knock sensor and related wiring by comparing the actual knock signal to the assigned voltage range. A normal knock sensor signal should vary outside the assigned voltage range (as shown in the normal knock sensor figure). If PCM detects a signal voltage within the assigned voltage range, DTC P0327 will set (as shown in the abnormal knock sensor figure).