There are moments when you just don’t have the time to fumble with keys in the dark, trying to start your car. Whether you’re stuck in the rain or just don’t want to deal with the hassle of turning the key in the dead of night, a knocking sensor can come in handy.
What is a Knock Sensor?
A knock sensor is a device that monitors the knocking noise that occurs when the driver’s door is knocked or banged open. If the knocking noise is too high, it can indicate that someone is trying to get into the car. The sensor will then disable the car’s starter in order to prevent the theft of the vehicle.
How Does the Knock Sensor Work?
The knock sensor is a small, sensitive device that is located in the engine block near the oil pan. When the engine is started and the knock sensor detects knocking or clanking noises, it sends a signal to the vehicle’s computer system. The computer then activates the Engine Control Module (ECM) to reduce or stop the fuel flow to the engine.
The knock sensor is very important because it can help prevent accidents by preventing the engine from starting if there is something wrong with it. If your car has a knock sensor, it is important to keep it clean and check for any problems with it regularly.
Can the Knock Sensor Stop My Car From Starting?
Knock sensor placement on a car can be an issue. If the sensor is too high up on the door, it can trigger the alarm system when the car is—intentionally or unintentionally—knocked. This could prevent you from starting your car in cold weather, for example. On the other hand, if the sensor is located too low down on the door, it may not detect any knocking at all and your car may start without warning.
In order to test your car’s knock sensor and determine where it should be installed, try this simple test: Knock on the passenger side door several times. If you hear an alarm going off in your head—or see a blue light flashing on your dashboard—the sensor is located too high up on the door and needs to be replaced. If no alarm goes off, then the sensor is located correctly and does not need to be replaced.
DIY Knock Sensor Fix
If your car won’t start because of a faulty knock sensor, there’s a quick and easy DIY fix you can try. All you need is some wire cutters and a screwdriver.
First, remove the panel near the knock sensor with your screwdriver. You’ll see two screws holding it in place. Remove them and set the panel aside.
Next, take the wire cutters and cut off the end of the knock sensor’s wire. Strip about 1/4 inch of insulation off each end of the wires.
Now, connect one end of the stripped wires to the screwdriver terminal on the side of the knock sensor, and the other end to one of the screw terminals on your car’s battery.
Turn your car on and check to see if it starts. If it does, great! You’ve fixed your knock sensor! If not, try turning your car off and back on again, or replacing your battery.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever had the unfortunate experience of trying to start your car only to find that the knock sensor isn’t working, then this article is for you. The knock sensor helps the car detect when somebody is knocking on the door, and it’s usually in place so that the car will not start if it’s already in motion. Unfortunately, sometimes this sensor can become faulty, which can stop your car from starting. If you have a 2010 or newer model vehicle, then there is a good chance that your knock sensor is located near the battery. If yours is not located near the battery but somewhere else on the car, then replacing your knock sensor may be your best option.