what does a knock sensor tell you about problems with an engine?

I got a knock engine sensor code when I tested the engine.

thanks, what needs to be done to fix it.

2010-05-05T19:22:27Z

oh, btw, it is a 1999 lexus, sorry for not mentioning this sooner. thanks for all your answers

Robert M2010-05-05T18:11:51Z

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The knock sensor is like an electronic ear that is bolted to the side of your engine. It listens for the signs of pre-ignition and detonation within the engine. This send a signal to the engine computer to retard ignition timing to prevent engine deterioration based upon detonation. Since you have NOT mentioned what kind of car this is, I cannot give you more details

Country Boy2010-05-05T18:15:53Z

It means the knock sensor needs to be replaced. There's no fix to a knock sensor. It doesn't tell you about a problem but provides a function by retarding ignition timing when the combustion chambers sense pre-ignition or spark knock.

Some malfunctioning oxygen sensors (Toyota) destroy automatic transmission shift patterns. Instead of starting in low gear the transmission starts in second. The'll also not roll out of fourth gear into overdrive.

Dumping in high test gas doesn't fix or band-aid an oxygen sensor.

Two Lane.2010-05-05T17:41:00Z

Must be a Nissan. Replace the knock sensor.

Unless it's a 1937 Desoto then there is no knock sensor but how would I know what you drive since you didn't mention it.

I fix cars for a living and replace 1 nissan knock sensor a week and rarely have ever replaced any knock sensor from another make. But what do I know, I fix cars for a living and am not a magazine editor.

Anonymous2010-05-05T19:56:46Z

The knock sensor doesn't tell you anything, it retards the timing when bad gasoline is present. If the engine indeeds knocks, you need a new one. Me and Robert are 200 % correct

Stpaulguy2010-05-05T17:43:10Z

Some vehicles have high failure rates on the knock sensor. Nissan and Subaru are two of them.

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