Circuit Description

The Knock Sensor (KS) system enables the Engine Control Module (ECM) to control the ignition timing for the best possible performance while protecting the engine from potentially damaging levels of detonation. The KS produces an AC voltage signal that varies depending on the vibration level during engine operation. The ECM adjusts the spark timing based on the amplitude and the frequency of the KS signal. The ECM learns a minimum KS noise level at idle and uses calibrated values for the rest of the engine speed range. The ECM should monitor a normal KS signal within the noise channel. If the ECM malfunctions in a manner that will not allow proper diagnosis of the KS system, DTC P0324 sets.