Car Culture HQ
Automotive Wiki

Electronics

Knock Sensor

A sensor detecting engine knock (detonation) so the ECU can retard timing.

Definition

Persistent knock indicates overly aggressive timing, lean mixtures, or low octane.

Performance tunes balance timing advance against knock margin.

Related terms

  • ECUEngine control unit — the computer managing fuel, ignition, and emissions parame
  • OBD-IIOn-board diagnostics standard providing standardized trouble codes and sensor da
  • MAP SensorManifold absolute pressure sensor reporting boost or vacuum to the ECU.
  • MAF SensorMass airflow sensor measuring incoming air mass for fuel delivery calculations.
  • CAN BusController area network — the digital communication backbone linking vehicle mod
  • Wideband O2 SensorA high-accuracy oxygen sensor reporting precise air-fuel ratio for tuning.

Category: Electronics · Updated August 31, 2026