P0326 - KNOCK SENSOR (KS) 1, BANK 1 -RANGE/PERFORMANCE PROBLEM

The Detonation Sensor (KS) is located above the engine. It is intended to detect the spark gap. As soon as a spark is present, the sensor produces a signal in the form of a voltage. This signal is sent to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) which delays the ignition timing. This protects the engine.

The KS Sensor inside is a piezoelectric crystal. It is used to produce DC voltage (alternating current) under vibration. This sensor converts the changes to an electrical signal. The PCM does not send reference voltage to the KS Sensor, rather the sensor creates its voltage.

When the diagnostic code P0326 OBDII is set, it means that the PCM has found a problem in the KS Sensor or the circuit of it. This code refers to sensor number 1, bank 1, due to some vehicles are equipped with two Detonation Sensors.

• Check Engine Lighting.
• Blows from the engine.
• The engine is losing power.
• Engine exhaust.

The reasons to establish the configuration of the DTC code P0326 OBD2 are

• Maybe the fuel supply is the wrong one.
• The Detonation Sensor (KS) connector may be damaged.
• The KS Sensor circuit may be shorted to voltage or ground.
• Moisture in the KS Sensor
• Defects in the KS Sensor.

To fix the malfunction caused by the fault code P0326 OBDII you must do the following:

• Check that the fuel octane used is appropriate. If you have used an octane lower than the specifications there may be detonations.
• Disconnect the Detonation Sensor and check for water or corrosion in its connector, repair, or replace.
• With the key in the on position and the engine off, check that there are 5 volts in the KS Sensor If so, check for proper resistance between the sensor terminal and engine ground. Check with the manufacturer's specifications and if the resistance is outside of those specifications, replace the KS Sensor.
• If the resistance value is appropriate, connect the sensor and switch the engine to idle. Then, with a scanning tool using the data flow function, observe the sensor value. If at idle there are indications of knocks, change the KS sensor.