P0329: Knock sensor 1 circuit intermittent (bank 1 or single sensor)
Knock sensor 1 circuit intermittent
Severity: Inspect soon
P0329 means the computer sees an on-and-off fault in knock sensor 1's circuit. The engine usually keeps running, but it may not detect real knock, so get it inspected soon.
It gets more serious if:
- Stop: You hear loud or persistent pinging or knocking, especially when accelerating. The computer may not be able to react to it, so avoid hard driving until it is checked.
P0329 in short
P0329 means the engine computer sees an intermittent fault in the circuit for knock sensor 1 (bank 1, or the only knock sensor). TroubleCodes.net lists a failed sensor, a circuit fault or, rarely, the computer as causes. The engine usually runs, so get it inspected soon and stop if it knocks loudly.
The knock sensor tells the computer when the engine is pinging so it can adjust timing. P0329 sets when that signal drops in and out.
Because the fault is intermittent, a loose connector or damaged wire is worth checking before replacing the sensor.
The Delaware DMV list and TroubleCodes.net give the same definition.
Most likely causes
These are general causes for this code across vehicles. None is specific to one make or model.
Cause 1: Failed knock sensor 1
Common general cause- Why it ranks here
- TroubleCodes.net lists the sensor first.
- What would change this
- Rises if the sensor reads out of spec or the signal drops out when tapped near it.
Cause 2: Fault in the knock sensor 1 wiring or connector
Common general cause- Why it ranks here
- The circuit is the second listed cause, and an intermittent code suits a loose or damaged connection.
- What would change this
- Rises if wiggling the harness changes the signal or damage is visible.
What to test first
Start at step 1. Each result tells you what it means and where to go next.
Step 1: Inspect the knock sensor wiring and connector for damage, corrosion or looseness.
IfDamage or looseness is found
It meansRepair the circuit.
IfNothing is found
It meansHave the sensor tested.
Symptoms
- Check engine light, sometimes the only symptom
- Reduced power or hesitation
- Pinging when accelerating Gets more serious: stop and have it checked.
How to fix
On your vehicle
We don't have reviewed vehicle-specific evidence for P0329 yet. The causes and tests above apply across vehicles.
Related codes
Sources and review
- Last reviewed
- Written by
- Saurabh K.
- Editorial review
- Pending
- Technician review
- Technician review pending
This page explains what a code usually means; it is not a substitute for a professional inspection. How we source and review · Report an error