What is P0326 fault code and what does it mean? What is the Knock Sensor Circuit Range/Performance Bank 1 Sensor 1 failure description? How do I fix the P0326 fault code What are the causes and symptoms of the P0326 error code?
What is the P0326 Fault code? What does it signify?
Code P0326 is activated when the powertrain controller module (PCM), detects that either the voltage signal from the knock sensors is out of range or not at all. Some vehicles may have more than one knock sensor. If there are more than one knock sensor, “Sensor 1” is the first. “Bank 1” refers to the engine bank in which the number one cylinder of the engine is located.
The knock sensor detects vibrations and sounds that can damage the engine. Engine knock is usually caused by fuel with low octane ratings, premature ignition and internal engine problems, such as faulty pistonrods and engine overheating. The knock sensor measures engine vibrations and generates voltage signals based on these vibrations. It typically has two wires. One wire is used to send the reference signal of 5 volts, and the other wire for the return signal from the PCM. Based on the frequency of the sensor signals, the PCM controls the ignition timing. In order to stop engine knock from occurring, the PCM will delay the ignition timing. The PCM assigns fault code P0326 to the engine knock if the severity or derivative of the knock exceeds a threshold.
The P0326 fault code can affect vehicles of various makes, including Mini, Hyundai, Chevrolet, BMW, and BMW.
What causes the P0326 Fault code?
Below are possible causes of the P0326 code.
- – Defective knock sensor (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
- – Knock sensor cables/or connectors damaged
- – Water and corrosion at the knock sensor connector
- – Internal engine issues
- – Use low quality or low octane fuel
- – Defective PCM
Note: Sometimes this code is associated with other fault codes. These codes should be addressed and rectified first.
What are the symptoms for the P0326 fault code?
You may experience the following symptoms if your vehicle has the code P0326:
- – Illumination for the check engine light
- – Engine making unusual noises
- – Engine losing power
- – Engine hesitation during acceleration
How to Fix the P0326 Fault Code
First, ensure that you use the right octane gasoline in your engine. Premature ignition and P0326 can be caused by fuel with a lower than required octane rating.
- – Test the knock sensor and replace it if necessary
- – Replace or repair any wire or connector that is associated with the knock sensor
- – Removing and installing the knock sensor
- – Test the engine control module and replace it if necessary
How serious is the P0326 Fault code?
Other codes can make the problem more severe. A severe engine knock should be noticed immediately by the driver. You should immediately report any engine knocking noises that your vehicle makes while it is running. This will prevent future engine damage.
