The knock sensor is incredibly important to prevent damage if, for example, you have filled up with the wrong fuel. Fuel with a higher or lower octane rating burns earlier or later than the correct fuel. This disrupts the timing of the pistons, which can even cause the crankshaft to rotate in the wrong direction. If this happens, your engine will suffer enormous damage.
Knock sensor function
The knock sensor is simply a microphone that measures the sound and vibrations of your engine. A combustion engine normally runs very regularly and predictably. By checking that the engine is running normally and sending a signal when the timing deviates, the knock sensor helps to determine the correct ignition timing.
Replacing the knock sensor
The exact location of the knock sensor varies from car to car. It is often mounted on the engine block, but in some cars it is located in the cylinder head or the intake manifold. The location determines how easy the knock sensor is to replace. The more difficult the knock sensor is to reach, the higher the cost of replacement at your garage will be. If the knock sensor is very easy to reach, you can replace it yourself.
Knock sensor defect
You can recognise a faulty knock sensor by a number of things. Firstly, the engine warning light on your dashboard will come on, without there being a clear problem with the engine. Because the ignition timing is not being controlled properly, the car may suffer from power loss or higher fuel consumption. In the worst case, the car engine will start to pink (knock), and this will damage your drivetrain.
You can easily order a new knock sensor. By entering your registration number, you will find suitable sensors for your car model. With our fast delivery and expert customer service, we make your ordering experience as easy as possible.