Circuit Description
The knock sensor (KS) produces an AC voltage at all engine speeds and loads. Depending on the amplitude and frequency of the KS signal, the powertrain control module (PCM) will adjust the spark timing. The PCM uses the KS signal in order to calculate the average voltage. The PCM inspects the KS and the related wiring by comparing the actual knock signal to the assigned voltage range. If the KS system is operating correctly, the PCM should monitor the KS voltage that is varying above and below a predetermined average voltage. This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) will set if the PCM malfunctions in a manner that will not allow proper diagnosis of the KS system.
Conditions for Running the DTC
| • | DTCs P0101, P0102, P0103, P0116, P0117, P0118, P0121, P0122, P0123, P0125, P0128, P0336, P0341, P0502, P0503, P1114, P1115, P1121, or P1336 are not set. |
| • | The engine speed is between 1,000-2,500 RPM. |
| • | The throttle angle is more than 10 percent. |
| • | The engine load is more than 40 percent. |
| • | The engine coolant temperature (ECT) is more than 60°C (140°F). |
| • | The maximum spark retard is less than 15 degrees. |
| • | The system voltage is more than 9 volts. |
| • | The engine run time is more than 30 seconds. |
Conditions for Setting the DTC
The PCM detects a malfunction in the knock sensor diagnostic circuitry which will not allow proper diagnosis of the KS circuit.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
| • | The control module illuminates the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) on the second consecutive ignition cycle that the diagnostic runs and fails. |
| • | The control module records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The first time the diagnostic fails, the control module stores this information in the Failure Records. If the diagnostic reports a failure on the second consecutive ignition cycle, the control module records the operating conditions at the time of the failure. The control module writes the operating conditions to the Freeze Frame and updates the Failure Records. |
Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC
| • | The control module turns OFF the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) after 3 consecutive ignition cycles that the diagnostic runs and does not fail. |
| • | A current DTC, Last Test Failed, clears when the diagnostic runs and passes. |
| • | A history DTC clears after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles, if no failures are reported by this or any other emission related diagnostic. |
| • | Clear the MIL and the DTC with a scan tool. |
Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
Schematic Reference: Engine Controls Schematics Connector End View Reference: Engine Controls Connector End Views or Powertrain Control Module Connector End Views | |||
1 | Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check-Engine Controls? | Go to Step 2 | |
2 |
Does the DTC fail this ignition? | Go to Step 3 | Go to Intermittent Conditions |
3 | Replace the PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement . Did you complete the replacement? | Go to Step 4 | -- |
4 |
Does the DTC run and pass? | Go to Step 5 | Go to Step 2 |
5 | With a scan tool, observe the stored information, Capture Info. Does the scan tool display any DTCs that you have not diagnosed? | System OK | |
