Knock Sensor Location

[2000corollaaz]

Hi,

As the title states, I would like to know where the knock sensor is located. I want to replace it in an effort to stop the ping issue this car has had for some time (2000). If it doesn't work, I return the sensor.

[huangxin]

most pinging are not caused by a defective knock sensor.

often the case, it's the carbon build up, or bad sparkplugs.

the sensor is located right under the intake manifold. it's almost impossible to get to unless the intake manifold comes off.

[2000corollaaz]

So, not an easy job huh? Plugs are good and the car has had multiple fuel treatments. Has had a ping issue for 55K miles or so.

[Bdub215]

what kind of gas do you run?

[Bitter]

vvt system problems can cause ping, cam not advancing/retarding correctly. so can carbon buildup, try a higher octane gas, if the ping goes away then its probably carbon buildup.

[huangxin]

well, the sensor itself is simple screwed into the block and connected to the harness by a connector. Just getting to the sensor is a bit annoying.

since the knock sensor is not cheap, i recommend try everything else before replacing it.

carbon build up also can cause pinging problems by raising the compression ratio.

[cheesep]

Like huangxin says it's highly unlikely that the knock sensor has anything to do with pinging. I'd look elsewhere to solve that.

If you do buy a knock sensor and especially if you install it, you may not be able to return it because it may be considered an electrical part.

If you do want to remove and replace the knock sensor, use an extra long (I mean extra long) pair of needlenose pliers to reach in between the intake manifold and remove the electrical connector. Then, remove the plastic skid plate under the front of the car and reach up from underneath behind the intake manifold with a very stubby (and I mean very stubby) wrench to undo the sensor. You have to contort yourself a bit to reach it but you can do it.