GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Object Number: 36456  Size: SF
Ignition System, Knock Sensors
Engine Controls Components
OBD II Symbol Description Notice

Circuit Description

The PCM contains integrated Knock Sensor (KS) Diagnostic Circuitry. Input signals from the knock sensors are used to detect engine detonation, allowing the PCM to retard Ignition Control (IC) spark timing based on the amplitude and frequency of the KS signal being received. The knock sensors produce an AC signal under all engine operating conditions. During operation, the PCM calculates an average voltage of each knock sensor's signal and takes instantaneous signal voltage readings. To determine the state of the knock sensor circuitry, the PCM compares the instantaneous signal voltage readings to the calculated average voltage. If the knock sensor system is operating normally, the PCM should monitor instantaneous KS signal voltages readings varying outside a voltage range above and below the calculated average voltage. If a malfunction occurs which will not allow the PCM to diagnose the knock sensor system, DTC P0325 will set. Refer to Knock Sensor (KS) System Description for further information.

Conditions for Running the DTC

  1. No TP sensor, VSS, CKP, MAF, or ECT DTCs are set.
  2. Engine speed is between 1000 and 4000 rpm.
  3. Throttle angle is greater than 3%.
  4. Engine load is greater than 20%.
  5. Engine coolant temperature is greater than 75°C (167°F).
  6. Maximum spark retard is less than 15 degrees.
  7. System voltage is greater than 9 volts.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    • The PCM detects a malfunction in the integrated knock sensor diagnostic circuitry which will not allow proper diagnosis of the knock sensor circuits.
    • Above conditions for at least 1 second.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The PCM will not illuminate the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL).
    • The PCM will store conditions which were present when the DTC set as Fail Records data only. This information will not be stored as Freeze Frame data.
    • The PCM will use a calculated spark retard value to minimize knock during conditions when knock is likely to occur. The calculated value will vary based on engine speed and load.

Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC

    • A history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles have occurred without a malfunction.
    • DTC can be cleared by using the scan tool Clear Info function or by disconnecting the PCM battery feed.

Test Description

Number(s) below refer to the step number(s) on the Diagnostic Table.

  1. Ensures that the malfunction is present.

  2. This vehicle is equipped with a PCM which utilizes an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM). When the PCM is being replaced, the new PCM must be programmed.

DTC P0325 - Knock Sensor Circuit

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

Was the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check performed?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to the Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

2

Important:: If an engine knock can be heard repair the engine mechanical problem before proceeding with this diagnostic. Refer to Engine Noise Diagnosis in Engine Mechanical.

  1. Operate engine within conditions specified in diagnostic support. Refer to Conditions for Setting the DTC.
  2. Using a scan tool, monitor Specific DTC info for DTC P0325 until the DTC P0325 test runs.

Does the scan tool indicate that DTC P0325 failed this ign?

--

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 3

3

  1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
  2. Review and record scan tool Fail Records data for DTC P0325.
  3. Operate vehicle within Fail Records conditions.
  4. Using a scan tool, monitor Specific DTC info for DTC P0325 until the DTC P0325 test runs.

Does scan tool indicate DTC P0325 test failed this ign?

--

Go to Step 4

Refer to Diagnostic Aids

4

Replace the PCM.

Important:: The replacement PCM must be programmed. Go to Powertrain Control Module Replacement/Programming .

Is action complete?

--

Go to Step 5

--

5

  1. Review and record Fail Records data
  2. Clear DTCs.
  3. Operate the vehicle within Fail Records conditions.
  4. Using a scan tool, monitor Specific DTC info for DTC P0325 until the DTC P0325 test runs.

Does the scan tool indicate DTC P0325 test failed this ign?

--

Go to Step 2

System OK