Knock Sensor - Hestitation

[kennmlee]

I've got a 1995 GLE. When the car is warmed up and it's hot out, the car hesitates badly when loading the engine from a stop (stop light, sign, etc...). I've replaced the plugs, fuel filter, pump and performed a BG fuel injection service. The only code registered using my OTC Genesis is P0325 - Knock Sensor #1 Malfunction (my check engine light never comes on). Would a bad knock sensor cause this symptom, or is there a deeper cause? I've already tested all the injectors and cylinders and they seem fine.

I've talked with various technicians and they said it could be the fact that we are at high altitude (5,280 feet) and that if I use the factory recommended 91 octane gas, the alcohol in the gas boils quicker and causes combustion issues. I'm about to try switching to 87 grade gas, but... My real question is why does the severe hesitation only occur when the car is heated up and it's hot out? Baffled. Please let me know if you have any thoughts. Thanks!

[wunfstmax]

sounds like your in denver...if so im in co springs... and i also have a bad knock sensor...its only affect my performance and gas mileage

[billg13]

I have this same problem with an 96 infinity I30. I happens about once a day or every other day. But only from a stand still. Other then that the car runs very smooth. Did you find out what the problem is yet.

[kennmlee]

I've been using 87 octane gas and the problem has seemingly gone away - weird, but it worked - still have the knock sensor code. Next step is to buy a new knock sensor and manifold gasket and replace the sensor. Car runs great now. No real explanation.

[SledgehammerVette]

It is your knock sensor. I have a hesitation as well and my knock sensor is dead. Mine is coming in this Friday. Your knock sensor is a ghost code thats why your CEL doesn't come on. All those things you fixed were most likely never the problem it is your Knock Sensor.

These guys offer a great price on a Knock Sensor. Just punch in the discout code MAXIMA and you'll get 12% off on it!

http://www.nissandealer.com/jerry-rome/part_catalog.cgi

Oh ya, and I bet your knock sensor works and then doesn't work kind of like mine. You say the car is fine now, but the next day the hesitation will be back. Do you notice any low end loss? I have an intake, and ypipe and with my bad knock sensor I have absouetly no low end.

And for those of you that have a knock sensor code and your car is running "smooth" I would still replace it immediatly because you'll start to feel a hesitation sooner or later, PLUS you already are getting bad gas mileage!

[HarleyJoel]

I replaced my '96 infiniti i30t for $123.06 minus shipping from www.everythingnissan.com . When you replace the sensor, make sure you use PREMIUM fuel. Low octane fuels are what causes the knocking and makes the sensor go bad.

[SledgehammerVette]

I just replaced mine Saturday. I have some cut up hands, but it was well worth it. I have a HAI and Ypipe and the low end is definetly back. From a stop if I stomp on the gas the tires squeal nicely, and the car just pulls like a monster now!