Guide To P0334 OBD Error Code Solutions

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OBD-II Code P0334 is defined as a Knock Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent. This means the PCM has detected a problem with the knock sensor or its circuit. 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 P0334. Code P0334 pertains to the sensor on bank 2. Due to this you may notice a lack of power, hesitation and/or pinging.

Error code P0334 means that the PCM has detected a voltage input reading in the knock sensor circuit for a particular cylinder that is not within a predetermined manufacturer’s limit. This code is detected when there is an excessively low or high voltage from the sensor is sent to Engine Control Module (ECM). 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 (ECM). The severity of the vibration encountered by the piezoelectric element (inside the knock sensor) determines the level of voltage produced in the circuit. If the PCM detects a level of knock sensor voltage that indicates a more severe engine noise, it may discontinue fuel delivery and ignition spark to the affected cylinder and a knock sensor code will be stored. If the PCM detects an unexpected signal from knock sensor 2, like battery voltage, complete battery ground, or pulsing voltage, a code P0334 will be stored and a MIL may be illuminated.

What causes the problem of Knock Sensor 2 Circuit Intermittent (Bank 2)?

• Knock sensor failure
• Knock sensor harness is open or shorted
• Knock sensor circuit has poor electrical connection
• Wiring issue
• Broken or damaged connectors
• Flawed Engine Control Module (ECM)

1. Knock Sensor - It is intended to record knocking noise in all engine operating states in order to prevent engine damage. So, it should work properly else can lead to the associated trouble codes. If you discover it faulty kindly replace it at earliest.
2. Engine Control Module - The ECM/ PCM, it’s a crucial part of the vehicle’s on-board computer, which usually resides in either the engine compartment or under one of your front seats, it provides the brain for the engine of the vehicle and makes sure the timing and emissions control system work properly. So, if it founds faulty should be repaired or replaced as required.
3. Connectors - Broken or damaged knock sensor connectors can also become the main reason behind this error code P0334. So, always replace those frayed connectors to avoid any major problems and any associated trouble code.

If you experience any of the below mentioned symptoms please have your vehicle diagnosed by a experienced technician with some degree of urgency as a stored code P0334 could be a sign of severe internal engine failure.

• Poor engine performance
• Low fuel efficiency
• Extraordinary noises from the engine area
• Hesitation while acceleration

It is never a good idea to avoid any issues with your expensive automobile, even if you feel it might only be a problem with the sensor. You might find that it is only a problematic sensor and would not cause any serious engine problems. Depending on the overall issue, there are a number of repairs that can help to remove the P0334 code. They include:

• Clear all the codes and test the vehicle. If the code returns, needs to determine the actual cause.
• Replace the frayed knock sensor. This is only a solution if the problem is actually a faulty knock sensor.
• Verify the connections and replace the faulty ones.
• Check carefully for corroded or broken and worn out engine parts.

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People usually pay a very little attention to these codes, thinking that they are just some simple sensor issues which can be. In some cases, this might be true. However, there could be a much greater problem with your vehicle. It is always a good idea to take the vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible. They can properly diagnose the vehicle and repair any issues they find. Steps to diagnose error code P0334 are as follows:

• Visually inspect all system related wiring harnesses and connectors.
• Connect the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic connector and retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data.
• Clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if any are reset.
• If the P0334 is reset, start the engine and use the scanner to observe knock sensor data.
• If the scanner indicates that knock sensor voltage is not within manufacturer’s specifications, use the DVOM to test live data at the knock sensor connector.
• If the signal at the connector is within specs, suspect a wiring issue between the sensor and the PCM.
• If voltage at the knock sensor connector is not within specifications, suspect a defective knock sensor.

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing the P0334 Code

People usually ignore the below mentioned points and commit mistakes so keep in mind that:

• 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