Error Code P033E: What It Means & What To Do?

<<See All OBD Codes

The P033E trouble code can be described as Knock Sensor 4 Circuit Intermittent Bank 2.

The engine knocking can be sensed by the knock sensor by using a piezoelectric element. The sensor is attached to the cylinder block, cylinder head as well as intake manifold. The knocking vibration from the cylinder block can be sensed as vibrational pressure.

This trouble code is generic, which would mean that it can apply to all the vehicles which are equipped with the OBD-II or the vehicles which are made since 1996 up to the present. The specifications on the definition, the troubleshooting steps as well as repairs can always vary from one vehicle make to another.

This can happen because of a lot of reasons and the mechanic should diagnose the specific cause for this code.

What causes this problem with the Knock Sensor 4 Circuit Intermittent Bank 2?

• The fuel might be contaminated or substandard
• Defects in the knock sensor
• Malfunctions in the internal engine
• Knock sensor 4 bank 2 circuit might have bad electrical connection
• Faults in the knock sensor control wiring and connectors
• Programming error in the powertrain control module
• The knock sensor 4 bank 2 might be faulty
• Issue of ignition misfire
• Opened or shorted knock sensor 4 bank 2 harness
• Quirks in the engine control module

1. Fuel Delivery System Parts - OBD Code P033E can appear because of faulty Fuel Delivery System Parts.
2. Powertrain Control Module - There can be some issues with the Powertrain Control Module due to which you may see P033E code appearing over and over again. Visit us to buy best quality PCM online.
3. Diagnostic Tools - Do you want to buy best Diagnostic Tools online? Wait no more! We are here to help you out!
4. Engine Control Module - Common cause behind this P033E error code can be some fault in Engine Control Module. So, it will be a good decision to replace them now.
5. Knock Sensor - PCM is perfectly fine but still but having that trouble code P033E flashing? In such a situation your Knock Sensor might be faulty. Why don’t you think of getting that replaced?
6. Fuel Ignition System - The P033E code can also arise due to some issues in Fuel Ignition System. So, it is advised to replace them as soon as possible.
7. Engine Parts - P033E code does not really end up spoiling your ECM, but it might also accompany few Engine Parts issues. We have best Engine Parts with us.

It is essential to know the symptoms of an issue as only then you would be able to solve the problem. So that’s why we have listed out some major symptoms of OBD Code P033E here:

Common Symptoms

• Issue of hesitation when accelerating
• The engine performance might start declining
• Abnormal noises can start coming from the engine area
• Rise in the fuel consumption

If you wish to correct this fault code, then you have to follow certain steps. Correcting a problem needs your careful attention. Here are some ways with the help of which you will be able to correct the OBD Code P033E:

• Replace the faulty knock sensor
• Correct the issue of ignition misfire
• If you find out that there are some issues in the knock sensor control wiring or connectors, then replace it
• Replace or repair the engine control module

Parts Avatar Canada is here to solve all your issues related to car parts. We have stocked a wide range of best priced Multimeter, Car Obd2 Code Scanner, Auto Code Reader, Subaru Knock Sensor and a lot more to help you out in fixing your car.

Here are some steps which you should follow in order to diagnose this fault code:

• To diagnose a code P033E, a diagnostic scanner, a digital volt/ohmmeter, and a reliable vehicle information source will be necessary. If the engine sounds like it is knocking, or excessively noisy, then you must address that issue before attempting a diagnosis for any knock sensor codes.
• Consult your vehicle information source for technical service bulletins which coincide with the symptoms exhibited and the codes stored in the vehicle in question. If the problem which you are having is a common one; the correct TSB may help form a successful diagnosis. Follow the diagnostic steps found in the TSB and you will likely arrive at the correct solution.
• First of all you should do a visual inspection of all system related wiring harnesses and connectors. Search for burnt, corroded, or otherwise broken wiring and connectors that may create an open or shorted circuit. Knock sensors are often in the lower part of the engine block. This makes them susceptible to damage when heavy parts like starters and engine mounts are replaced. System connectors, wiring, and fragile knock sensors are frequently broken during repairs in the vicinity.
• Connect the scanner to the vehicle diagnostic connector and retrieve all stored codes and freeze frame data. Write this information down for use in the diagnostic process. Clear the codes and test drive the vehicle to see if any are reset.
• If the P033E 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.

Additional diagnostic notes:

• The systems with multiple knock sensors are arranged differently from one vehicle to another. You must 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

Common Mistakes When Diagnosing The P033E Code

• There can be some failures with the powertrain control module
• The knock sensor can have some defects
• The issue of wiring can arise.