Q: Could a problem with the knock sensor keep my car from starting?

asked by on November 09, 2016

The engine light came on and the next day the car would not start at first it eventually started so I had the battery, alternator,and the starter checked and all were good they read the code and it said P0326 knock sensor 1 Circuit range could this be why my car didn't start?

My car has 55164 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Check Engine Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there. A problem with the knock sensor or knock sensor circuit can definitely make starting a vehicle more difficult. A knock sensor is used by engineers to help the engine’s computer sense possible internal engine failure before it becomes catastrophic. At the age and mileage of your vehicle, I would suspect either a failed sensor or a broken wire (small rodents love to chew on these wires for nesting material). I strongly suggest having a qualified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, perform an inspection to diagnose your illuminated Check Engine Light so that you can avoid any unnecessary part replacements.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I toggle in the driver information center (DIC)?
When using the driver information center (DIC), you have to toggle between options. Doing so is very easy, and makes the DIC an easy feature to use. To toggle in the DIC, simply press the up or down arrow buttons...
AC stops working when idling
It is possible that your compressor clutch is producing more drag than usual, causing the near stall at idle. When the engine RPM is raised, the belt rotates faster, forcing the compressor to spin. It is also possible that you...
purchased isspro R8480M speedometer, and have to replace new one with old one in vehicle, must match mileage to the mile. but no p
Hello. I would contact the manufacturer of the gauge for specifics on whether or not the mileage on the unit can be advanced. It may be possible that mileage can be advanced electronically or mechanically by disassembling the unit. However,...
Car starts but acts like it doesn't want to
Hey there. This sounds like a faulty alternator. Use a multi-meter to test the alternator's output voltage (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-test-your-alternator_2). Good alternators test in the range of 13.8-14.2 volts and make sure to use the 20 volt setting, or you could receive...
Should I use windshield washer fluid to defrost my front windshield 2016 Nissan Altima
Hi There, You can certainly use the window washer fluid in your car to spray on the windshield when defrosting your windshield. As you may know, most window washer fluid contain an alcohol solution in them that reduces the freezing...
Bill a seal and lien
Actually, the fact that the paperwork "mistakenly" records the sale as from the dealer, rather than an individual is going to help you untangle this because dealers are heavily regulated in these transactions whereas with private sales between individuals you...
The electric power steering system warning light is on and check engine light is on.Code P0607
P0607 is a code for a control module failure (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0607-obd-ii-trouble-code-control-module-performance-by-brady-klopfer) It may mean a control module failure or It may be set by low battery voltage or wiring harness problems. To have it show up on such a new car...
What oil should I use in my 04 Audi A4 3.0L V6 Quattro S Line, either 5W30 or 0W40-10W40?
Viscosities of 5W-40, 5W-30, 0W-40, and 0W-30 are all specified for your model, the main selection criteria being the ambient temperature you are operating in. If you are in Alaska, use 0W-30. If you are in the southeastern desert, use...
2004 Pontiac Grand Prix short grinding noise
Many vehicles with ABS brakes have a self test system when the vehicle first begins to move. This causes the valves inside of the ABS hydraulic control unit to move up and down very rapidly. It is possible that you...

Related articles

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Electronic Spark Control
Common signs include engine performance issues, engine stalling, the car not starting, and the engine not sparking.
P2038 OBD-II Trouble Code: Reductant Inj Air Press Sensor Circ Range/Performance
The The P2038 code is a general OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that points to a fault with the reductant injection air pressure sensor “A” circuit range / performance. What the P2038 code means The reductant injection system adds air or...
P0322 OBD-II Trouble Code: Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit No Signal
P0322 means the PCM received an unusual input signal from the distributor or crankshaft position sensor, due to their misalignment