P0328 OBD Error Code: Problem & Solutions

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Error Code P0328 is defined as Knock Sensor 1 Circuit High Input (Bank 1 or Single Sensor). It means this code refers to a fault in the knock sensor 1 circuit. This trouble code is detected when there is an excessively high voltage from the sensor is sent to Electronic Control Module (ECM). Typical knock sensor circuits consist of one 5-volt signal wire. If voltage readings exceed a variation of 10-percent from the manufacturer’s reference voltage, a code will be stored in the PCM and a malfunction indicator lamp will be illuminated.

A P0328 code is a generic DTC, thus it applies to all makes of vehicles, and refers to a high output voltage of the knock sensor. The knock sensor is attached to the cylinder block. It senses engine knocking using a piezoelectric element. A knocking vibration from the cylinder block is sensed as vibration pressure. This pressure is converted into a voltage signal and sent to the Engine Control Module. Error Code P0328 means there’s a high input coming from the bank 1 sensor 1. This happens when the PCM detects excessively high voltage way out of the specified range from the knock sensor.

What causes the problem of Knock Sensor 1 Circuit High Input (Bank 1 or Single Sensor)?

• Failed knock sensor
• Inaccurate fuel octane
• Reduced fuel pressure
• Mechanical engine problem
• Fault in the knock sensor circuit
• PCM failure
• Electrical interference in circuit

1. Knock Sensor - The purpose of the knock sensor is to alert the Powertrain Control Module or PCM that the engine is pinging or knocking. If knock sensor is malfunctioned then all the system will not work properly. If you find it faulty, replace it immediately.
2. Engine Coolant System - The cooling system is designed to vary cooling so the engine is neither too hot nor too cold. A car engine produces a lot of heat when it is running, and must be cooled continuously to avoid engine damage. So, ensure its efficient functioning to avoid any trouble code.
3. Electronic Control Unit - An electronic control unit is a device responsible for overseeing, regulating and altering the operation of a car's electronic systems. It should work flawlessly but if ever you discover it flawed, kindly replace or repair it as needed.

Below are the common symptoms for the code P0328. If you experience below mentioned symptoms please bring your vehicle to a reputable repair facility. Keep in mind; problems don’t get better over time unless rectified.

• Detectable knocking sound from engine
• Pinging while acceleration
• Loss of power
• Improper RPM
• MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) illumination

Symptoms to this trouble code P0328 are meek and don’t always cause serious drivability issues but it makes the engine to run hot that is the reason why it is crucial to fix this problem. If there is an engine knocking (detonation), first thing you need to fix is the mechanical problem and retest the vehicle. Ensure the vehicle is using the correct octane fuel. The most common source of this problem is the knock sensor itself, connectors or wirings of the sensors to the PCM. All these things should be checked first and repair or replace as necessary. Other common fixes include:

• Repairing or replacing the knock sensor wiring harness
• Replacing faulty ECU
• Replacing bank 1 knock sensor 1
• Repair fuel problems
• Repair overheating engine

Kindly replace the faulty parts immediately for the smooth functioning of your expensive automobile. We offer you a wide range of all top-grade replacement parts on the best prices available. Have a tour of our web and discover more.

This trouble code is considered generic because it applies to all makes and models of vehicles, although specific repair steps may be different depending on your car model. Keep the below mentioned points in mind while diagnosing this code.

• Capture and document the freeze frame data.
• Visually inspect the engine and cooling system, coolant level/condition and oil level/condition to verify that code P0328 wasn't caused by a failure of a mechanical system.
• Start the engine and rev it a few times to see that it operates normally.
• Test drives the vehicle with a data streaming scanner and pay close attention to the #1 Knock Sensor PID and the PID for timing advance.
• Please check if knock sensor is sending signals when the engine isn't pinging?
• If so, tap the engine with a small hammer and watch the knock sensor PID as well as the PID for timing advance

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0328 Code

Mistakes can be made when steps are not completed in the proper order or are skipped over completely. Other mistakes could be,

• Knock Sensor replaced when the actual was a cooling system problem
• Knock Sensor replaced when the actual cause was an EGR system malfunction