Guide To P032B OBD Error Code Solutions

<<See All OBD Codes

OBD-II Code Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure is defined as a Knock Sensor 3 Circuit Range/Performance. The sensor signal wire informs the PCM when a knock occurs and in what degree of severity. The PCM will retard the spark timing to avoid pre-detonation. If the PCM senses that the knock is severe and cannot be eliminated by retarding the spark timing, P032B may set. The check engine light may or may not be illuminated.

Technical description for this trouble code P032B is Knock sensor (KS) 3, bank 1 – circuit range/performance. Knock sensors are used to detect engine pre-detonation. A 5-volt reference is supplied to the sensor and there is a signal return from the knock sensor to the PCM. For this Diagnostic Trouble Code, it refers to the #3 knock sensor. If the PCM determines that the knock is out of the ordinary or that the noise level is abnormally high, P032B may set. Common problems that trigger this trouble code P032B are knock sensor failure, PCM failure and wiring issues. Please note that knock sensors cannot distinguish between a knock from pre-detonation or one from engine problems. This code should be rectified as soon as possible else can create some serious issues in near future.

What causes the problem of Knock Sensor 3 Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 1)?

• Defective Knock Sensor 3
• Bad electrical connection in circuit of knock sensor 3
• Open or shorted harness of knock sensor 3
• Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

1. Knock Sensor - The knock sensor (KS) is mounted in the engine and is used to detect spark knock. The knock sensor detects vibrations upon increase and decrease in engine rpm. Ensure its efficient functioning else can lead to the associated trouble codes.
2. Engine Coolant System - Engine cooling system provide a satisfactory temperature operating range for the engine and regulates the engine temperature to keep it just right during all operating conditions. So, if you discover it faulty then go ahead and replace or repair it as required.
3. Electronic Control Unit - Electronic Control Unit, the ECU is a name given to a device that controls one or more electrical systems in a vehicle. If it is flawed kindly repair or replace it to avoid any further trouble.

Keep in mind; problems don’t get better over time unless rectified. So, if you discover any of the below mentioned symptom in your vehicle then please take your vehicle to a reputed repair facility. Symptoms for this error code may include:

• Pinging while acceleration
• Low fuel efficiency
• Detectable knocking in engine area
• Illuminated check engine light

Symptoms to this trouble code P032B are mild 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 faulty wiring or connectors.
• Replacing faulty ECU
• Replacing bank 1 knock sensor 3
• Repair fuel problems

Take a tour of our website Parts Avatar Canada to find all the replacement and performance parts you require to get rid of any OBD Code for any make and model. We offer you the best price possible in the market from the best brands. Explore now!

Below are some basic steps to diagnose the trouble code P032B, though we always recommend you to have it diagnose from an experienced technician.

• Fix the source of the mechanical problem first then retest.
• Make sure the proper octane of fuel was used in the engine.
• Unplug the knock sensor and check for water or corrosion in the connector.
• Verify there is no coolant from the engine block fouling the sensor.
• Ensure that 5 Volts are present at the KS #3 connector.
• Check for proper resistance between KS terminal and engine ground.
• If resistance is out of specification, replace the knock sensor. If resistance is normal, plug KS back in and idle the engine.
• Turn ignition off and clip the knock sensor 5-volt reference wire in a location that is easy to repair.
• Check for 5 volts on the PCM side of the clipped wire. If 5 volts isn't present, suspect a bad PCM.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P032B Code

Please do not neglect to check the Quality of the fuel. Make sure the proper octane of fuel was used in the engine. Using lower octane fuel than what is specified can cause a ping or pre-detonation and may cause P032B and be cautious while replacing knock sensors.