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Acura Legend Knock Sensor

Stopping Engine Knocks: Troubleshooting Your Acura Legend Knock Sensor

A knock sensor's main function is a no-brainer-it senses bad knocks in your engine. This so-called listening device detects engine noises and vibrations caused by detonation, so expect your Acura to perform poorly when it goes bad. Detonation, when not properly addressed, can significantly decrease engine power and fuel mileage. It's the knock sensor's job to alert the ECU when detonation occurs so that ignition timing can be adjusted properly and engine efficiency can be restored. Like all other sensors in your Acura, the knock sensor may also wear out and malfunction over time. If you're having problems with your Acura Legend knock sensor lately, it would be best to perform some troubleshooting to save your engine from further damage. Below is a guide to help you out:

Decreased engine RPM

If you're experiencing slower engine acceleration, one of the probable culprits is a knock sensor with a wiring short. A faulty circuit can affect and slow down the engine's revolutions per minute, resulting in loss of vehicle power. To check the knock sensor for bad circuit, perform a visual inspection on the connected wires. Have a mechanic test broken or frayed wires against normal generated resistance and compare the readings with the sensor's factory specifications. If the readings do not meet the specs of your Acura Legend knock sensor, then you must replace these faulty wires right away to restore acceleration power.

Knocking noises

A bad knocking sensor will produce knocking or pounding noises in the engine that becomes louder and more noticeable over time. The noise can be heard under the hood when you're going at high speeds, and it usually comes with vibrations. Engine knock can be severely damage several crucial components, including spark plugs, pistons, gaskets, valves, and connecting rods. Aside from wreaking havoc in your engine compartment, engine knock can also decrease your vehicle's fuel mileage. To test the knocking sensor for damage, hit the intake manifold using a crescent wrench. The manifold's located at the center of your engine, right above the knock sensor. By striking the manifold, you'll create a detonation that should cause the knock sensor to adjust the timing. The engine will then make the necessary adjustment and create a sound different from the one it usually produces. If you don't hear any difference, your knock sensor is indeed faulty and should be replaced immediately.

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  • Top Tips in Keeping Your Acura Legend Knock Sensor in Good Shape 27 February 2013

    Many engine problems are often nipped in the bud before they worsen due to the collective effort of various electronic sensors. These devices transmit signals and pieces of useful information to the ECU in order to regulate crucial operations in your vehicle. If these sensors become faulty, the ECU won't be given accurate information, causing some or most engine operations to cease functioning properly. Your Acura Legend knock sensor plays an important role in keeping one of the most crucial operations in your engine running smoothly-the combustion process. Often referred to as a listening device, a knock sensor enables the engine to achieve optimum combustion by detecting detonation vibrations and noises. It helps the ECU adjust ignition timing properly to prevent detonation from dealing irreversible damage to the engine, so keeping it in tiptop shape is important. We've listed a couple of maintenance tips to help you out.

    Use the right octane fuel.

    A well-maintained knock sensor can maximize your vehicle's fuel efficiency and help you save gas money. This won't be the case if you're using the wrong octane. Not following your vehicle manufacturer's instructions in the right type of gas will not only jeopardize the knock sensor's performance, but also hamper your engine's smooth operation. In most cases, all internal engine components will be severely affected when wrong octane is used. Even if it may put a strain on your pocket, always use the right octane fuel to prevent any knock sensor-related problems.

    Replace faulty wires and cracked seals.

    Your Acura Legend knock sensor may cease to operate properly if its wires and seals are damaged. Perform routine inspections on the sensor's wiring to check for frayed, loose, or defective wires. If you think your knock sensor has a bad circuit or a wiring short, have a mechanic test the wiring and compare the readings with the sensor's factory specs. Get replacements if necessary to maintain the sensor's performance. Cracked or dried out seals should also be replaced to prevent moisture from entering the sensor and causing wiring short.