Car manufacturers are always updating their models with the latest security features and technologies. One of these new features is the knock sensor. If you have a car that is built after September 1, 2017, it has this feature. If your car doesn’t have a knock sensor, there is a very high chance that your car will not start if someone tries to start it by knocking on the door.
What is a Knock Sensor and How Does It Work?
A knock sensor is a type of electronic control module that monitors the timing and intensity of engine knocking. If the timing or intensity of knocking exceeds a preset value, the knock sensor will activate an indicator light on the dash to warn the driver.
What Are the Side Effects of a Knock Sensor?
Knock sensor failures can lead to a variety of problems with your car, including not being able to start the engine. Here’s a look at some of the potential side effects of a knock sensor failure.
1. Not being able to start the engine.
2. Lost power steering.
3. Damaged engine components.
4. Reduced gas mileage.
5. Increased emissions levels.
6. Incorrectly calculated fuel economy numbers.
7. Increased likelihood of getting pulled over by law enforcement.
8. Expensive repairs needed to fix the car’s underlying problem
How to Fix a Knock Sensor in Cars
If your car doesn’t start after you knock on the hood, there may be a bad knock sensor. This is a small electronic device that uses vibrations to tell the car’s computer if you’ve hit something. If there’s a problem with the knock sensor, it can prevent the car from starting. Here are some tips for fixing a knock sensor in cars:
1. Check if the sensor is fried or broken. If it’s fried or broken, you’ll need to replace it.
2. Try turning off the car and then back on again. If the sensor still isn’t working, it may be due to a wiring issue. Check to see if there’s any damage to the wiring near the sensor.
3. If none of these tips work, then you’ll need to take your car into a mechanic to have it checked out.
Conclusion
If your car won’t start, is there a specific reason you think the knock sensor may be the culprit? Unfortunately, it’s not always clear what could be causing a car not to start. In some cases, a bad knock sensor might just need to be replaced. Other times, however, the problem might be more complicated and require further diagnostics or repairs. If you’re not sure whether the knock sensor is responsible for your car not starting, give our team at Car Parts Discount a call at 1-800-874-2651 and we’ll do our best to help you out.