P032D - OBD Trouble Code

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Do you always hear an audible knocking from the engine compartment and confront pinging from engine under acceleration? If yes, then don’t ignore it as these are the symptoms of OBD Code P032D. Most PCMs have the ability to learn spark knock trends in the engine during normal operation. If the PCM determines that the knock is out of the ordinary or that the noise level is abnormally high for knock sensor #3 on bank 1, P032D may set. The check engine light may or may not be illuminated.

OBD-II Code P032D is defined as a Knock Sensor 3 Circuit High. It is a generic powertrain code, which means that it applies to OBD-II equipped vehicles. Knock sensors are used to detect engine pre-detonation (engine knock or ping). 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, P032D may set. Common problems that trigger the trouble code P032D are knock sensor failure, PCM failure and Wiring issue. A stored code P032A should be considered severe because it could indicate internal engine failure. The knock sensor tells the engine control module (PCM) that the engine has an excessive vibration resulting from an incorrect fuel and air mixture. If the PCM does not receive a signal from the knock sensor, it will set code P032D.

What causes the problem of Knock Sensor 3 Circuit High Bank 1?

• Knock sensor connectors has dampness
• Damaged knock sensor connectors
• Open or shorted knock sensor circuit
• Knock sensor failure
• PCM failure
• Inaccurate fuel octane

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 P032D. 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.

• Difficulty while acceleration
• Recognizable knocking from the engine area
• Illuminated check engine light

The reason for this code might be on the smaller side of the monetary Richter scale; however, it is always good to have it checked ASAP because of the extensive variety of potential outcomes. To correct this trouble code all the below mentioned things should be checked first and repair or replace as necessary:

• Replacing the knock sensor at fault
• Repairing damaged or frayed wiring related to the knock sensor
• Replacing corroded electrical connectors
• Replacing a faulty Engine Control Module
• Repairing internal engine damage
• Replace incorrect fuel octane

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.

To diagnose this code, one should seek assistance from a trained automotive diagnostician but if you want to do it by yourself, please follow the below mentioned steps:

• 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 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.
• Tap on the engine block while observing the knock signal. If it doesn't show a signal that corresponds with the taps, replace the knock sensor.
• 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 P032D Code

One should remember these couple of things to stay away from committing mistakes while diagnosing the error code P032D. Generally, people miss on these things and commit mistakes.

• Verify the fuel quality and fuel pressure
• Verify the knock sensor thoroughly before replacing.