P0325 Knock Sensor 1 Circuit Malfunction

DTC P0325 appears on a vehicle's dashboard when the engine control module (ECU, ECM, or PCM) registers a malfunction in the automotive knock sensor, also known as the knock sensor (KS).

Technical description of error З0325

Knock Sensor Circuit Malfunction

What does this mean?

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is a generic transmission code, which means it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles. Although general, specific repair steps may differ depending on the brand / model. Ironically, this code seems to be more common on Honda, Acura, Nissan, Toyota and Infiniti vehicles.

The knock sensor tells the engine computer when one or more of your engine's cylinders "knock", ie, they explode the air / fuel mixture in such a way as to provide less power and cause engine damage if it continues to run.

The computer uses this information to tune the engine so that it does not knock. If your knock sensor was not working properly and always indicated knock, the engine computer may have changed the ignition timing on your engine to prevent damage.

Knock sensors are usually bolted or screwed into the cylinder block. This Code P0325 may appear intermittently, or the Service Engine light may remain on. Other DTCs associated with the knock sensor include P0330.

Here is an example of a typical knock sensor:

What are the symptoms of a faulty knock sensor?

Possible symptoms of a faulty knock sensor and / or a P0325 code may include:

• the engine warning lamp is on (warning lamp for malfunction)
• lack of power
• engine vibrations
• engine detonation
• audible engine noise, especially when accelerating or under load
• reduced fuel efficiency (increased consumption)
• Turn on the corresponding engine warning light.
• Loss of power in the engine.
• Strange, knocking sounds come from the engine.

However, these symptoms may also appear in combination with other error codes.

Repair Tips

After the vehicle is taken to the workshop, the mechanic will usually perform the following steps to properly diagnose the problem:

• Scan for error codes with an appropriate OBC-II scanner. Once this is done and after the codes have been reset, we will continue to test drive on the road to see if the codes reappear.
• Inspection of the electrical wiring system for bare wire or short circuit.
• Checking the knock sensor.
• Check shock absorber sensor connector.
• Checking the resistance of the knock sensor.

It is strongly not recommended to replace the knock sensor without having carried out a number of preliminary checks, since the cause may be, for example, a short circuit.

Generally, the repair that most often cleans up this code is as follows:

• Repair or replacement of the knock sensor.
• Repair or replace shock absorber sensor connector.
• Repair or replacement of faulty electrical wiring elements.

DTC P0325 does not threaten the stability of the vehicle on the road, so driving is possible. However, keep in mind that the car will not run at peak efficiency as the engine will lose power. For this reason, the vehicle should be taken to a workshop as soon as possible. Given the complexity of the interventions required, a do-it-yourself option in a home garage is not feasible.

It is difficult to estimate the upcoming costs, since a lot depends on the results of the diagnostics carried out by the mechanic. As a rule, replacing a knock sensor in a store is quite inexpensive.

What causes the P0325 code?

The P0325 code most likely means that one or more of the following events have occurred:

• The knock sensor is defective and needs to be replaced.
• Short circuit / malfunction in the knock sensor circuit.
• Transmission Control Module PCM Failed
• Malfunction of the knock sensor.
• Clutch sensor connector malfunction.
• Malfunction of the knock sensor.
• Wiring problem due to bare wire or short circuit.
• Electrical connection problems.
• Problem with the engine control module, sending incorrect codes.

Possible solutions

• Check the resistance of the knock sensor (compare with the factory specifications)
• Check for broken / frayed wires leading to the sensor.
• Check the integrity of the wiring from the PCM to the knock sensor wiring connector.
• Replace the knock sensor.

ADVICE. It may be helpful to use a scan tool to read freeze frame data. This is a snapshot of the various sensors and conditions when the code was set. This information can be useful for diagnostics.

We hope you find this information on P0325 helpful. If you need more help, check out the relevant forum discussions below, or join the forum to ask a question directly related to your problem.

How to Fix P0325 Engine Code in 2 Minutes [1 DIY Method / Only $10.86]

Need more help with your p0325 code?

If you still need help with DTC P0325, post a question in the comments below this article.

NOTE. This information is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as a repair recommendation and we are not responsible for any action you take on any vehicle. All information on this site is protected by copyright.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does code P0325 mean?

DTC P0325 indicates a problem with the vehicle's knock sensor, also known as the knock sensor (KS).

What causes the P0325 code?

Most often this is a malfunction of the knock sensor itself or a wiring malfunction.

How to fix code P0325?

It is necessary to check the sensor, its components and wiring.

Can code P0325 go away on its own?

This code will not go away on its own and intervention is required.

Can I drive with code P0325?

Driving is possible if traction is not impaired. However, the performance of the machine will not be up to par.

How much does it cost to fix code P0325?

As a rule, the cost of replacing a knock sensor in a workshop is in the order of several tens of euros.