Error Code P032E: What It Means & What To Do?

<<See All OBD Codes

P032E is a diagnostic trouble code for Knock Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent Bank 1. If the PCM detects an unexpected signal from knock sensor 3, like battery voltage, complete battery ground, or pulsing voltage, a code P032E will be stored and a MIL may be illuminated. Due to this trouble code you may start facing problems like decreased fuel efficiency, diminished engine performance and loud noises from engine area. This code has to be rectified as soon as possible to avoid any serious problem in near future.

Technical description for this trouble code P032E is Knock sensor (KS) 3, bank 1 – Circuit Intermittent. When the knock sensor voltage output is beyond the range that the Engine Control Module expects as “normal”, a code P032E may set. 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. 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 P032E.

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

• Defective Knock Sensor 3 Bank 1
• Misfiring while ignition
• Adulterated fuel
• Bad electrical connection
• Open or shorted harness of Knock Sensor 3 Bank 1
• ECM failure
• Damaged internal engine

1. Knock Sensor - The knock sensor is a form of transducer, which is a device that converts changes in physical quantity into an electrical signal. It senses engine knocking using a piezoelectric element. It is very crucial to fix it if found flawed to avoid associated trouble codes.
2. Engine Coolant System - The job of a car's cooling system is to release the surplus heat from the engine as the car burns fuel. A car engine produces a lot of heat when it is running, and must be cooled continuously to avoid engine damage. It should work properly but if in case you find it faulty, kindly replace or repair it as needed.
3. Electronic Control Unit - An engine control unit (ECU), also commonly called an engine control module (ECM), is a type of electronic control unit that controls a series of actuators on an internal combustion engine to ensure optimal engine performance. Ensure its smooth functioning to avoid any trouble code.

Error Code P032E should be rectified at earliest else it could develop into something much more serious fairly quickly. Symptoms which specify error code OBD P032Emay comprise:

• Reduced engine performance
• Difficulty while acceleration
• Extraordinary noises from the engine
• Diminished fuel efficiency

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 if faulty
• Repairing damaged or frayed wiring related to the knock sensor
• Replacing corroded electrical connectors
• Replacing a faulty Engine Control Module
• Repairing internal engine damage
• Repairing restricted fuel supply (clogged line, fuel filter, injector)

PartsAvatar offers you a large variety of high grade replacement and performance parts to make your expensive vehicle run smoothly and efficiently. Explore now! it is a just a click away.

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: 

• Begin with measuring the voltage output of the knock sensor with the help of multimeter.
• With the help of hammer tap on the knock sensor and engine to verify if the voltage increases.
• Test the resistance of a knock sensor and the resistance should equate to the specifications of the manufacturer.
• Check the freeze frame data.
• Verify the advance or retard of the ignition timing.
• Have a look at the fuel pressure.
• Confirm the quality of the fuel.
• Inspect the condition of the spark plugs and related ignition components. 

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P032E Code 

One should remember these couple of things to stay away from committing mistakes while diagnosing the error code P032E. Generally, people miss on these things and commit mistakes. 

• Systems with multiple knock sensors are arranged differently from one vehicle to another. Be careful to address the correct knock sensor for the code exhibited.
• Beware of hot, pressurized coolant when removing knock sensors that are threaded into engine coolant passages.