Description and Operation: Description
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Kia Sedona. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Knocking is a phenomenon characterized by undesirable vibration and noise that can cause engine damage. Two Knock Sensors (KS) are installed inside the V-valley of the cylinder block to sense engine knocking.
When knocking occurs, the vibration from the cylinder block is applied as pressure to the piezoelectric element.
When a knocking occurs, the sensor produces voltage signal. The ECM retards the ignition timing when knocking occurs. If the knocking disappears after retarding the ignition timing, the ECM will advance the ignition timing. This sequential control can improve engine power, torque and fuel economy.