P0330 moderate

Knock Sensor 2 Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2)

The P0330 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Knock Sensor 2 Circuit Malfunction (Bank 2). This is a moderate severity code.

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Keep driving?
Short distances only
DIY difficulty
moderate
Estimated cost
$150 - $600 (parts and labor)
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Common Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light illuminated
  • Reduced engine power on bank 2
  • Engine pinging or knocking under load
  • Poor fuel economy
  • PCM retards timing on bank 2 cylinders

Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)

  • Faulty knock sensor 2 on bank 2 Very High
  • Damaged or corroded sensor wiring or connector High
  • Incorrect sensor torque specification Moderate
  • Engine mechanical noise on bank 2 interfering with signal Moderate
  • PCM knock sensor input circuit failure Low

Common Fixes by Vehicle

What techs usually find when diagnosing P0330 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:

2007-2020 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 5.3L Moderate DIY

Bank 2 knock sensor malfunction. Located under the intake manifold alongside the Bank 1 sensor. ACDelco. Replace both knock sensors and the wiring harness at the same time since the manifold is already off. Torque to 15 ft-lbs exactly. Check for AFM oil splash contaminating the sensors. GM has a service bulletin covering this applies. Your dealer can confirm whether an open service bulletin or warranty extension applies to your VIN. Confirm the exact part for your year and engine with a retailer's fitment lookup or your VIN before ordering - these applications split by engine and build date.

Labor: 3-4 hours
2002-2015 Nissan Altima/Maxima 3.5L VQ35DE Moderate DIY

Bank 2 knock sensor has failed. On the VQ35DE, both knock sensors are under the intake manifold. Replace both sensors and the harness together since the manifold is off. Hitachi. Check for coolant contamination from the intake coolant passage leaking onto the harness connectors. Clean and reseal all coolant passages while the manifold is removed. Confirm the exact part for your year and engine with a retailer's fitment lookup or your VIN before ordering - these applications split by engine and build date.

Labor: 2-3 hours
2007-2017 Toyota Tundra/Tacoma 4.0L V6 Moderate DIY

Bank 2 knock sensor failure on the 1GR-FE V6. The sensor is under the intake manifold. Replace with an OE-quality Denso unit and inspect the wiring harness for heat damage. Both sensors should be replaced together to avoid removing the intake manifold twice. Torque to 20 ft-lbs. Replace the intake manifold gaskets while the manifold is off. Confirm the exact part for your year and engine with a retailer's fitment lookup or your VIN before ordering - these applications split by engine and build date.

Labor: 3-4 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with code P0330?

You can drive short distances. The PCM will retard timing on bank 2, reducing power and fuel economy. Have it diagnosed to ensure there is no actual engine knock occurring.

What is bank 2?

Bank 2 is the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder 1. On V6 and V8 engines, this is typically the passenger side, though it varies by manufacturer.

Can I replace just the bank 2 knock sensor?

Yes. If only the bank 2 sensor is faulty, you only need to replace that one. However, since accessing the sensor often requires removing the intake manifold, many mechanics recommend replacing both sensors at once to save on future labor.

Mechanics Guide Step-by-step diagnosis

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

  1. Monitor knock sensor 2 signal with a scan tool -- tap the engine block near bank 2 and verify voltage response

  2. Measure knock sensor 2 resistance -- compare to manufacturer specification

  3. Inspect the sensor connector for corrosion, oil intrusion, or loose pins

  4. Verify sensor torque meets manufacturer specification

  5. Check for mechanical noise sources on bank 2 such as exhaust leaks or accessory belt noise

Sources 1

This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.

  • SAE J2012Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (defines the generic OBD-II code ranges)

Commonly Affected Vehicles

  • 2007-2017 Toyota Tundra V8
  • 2005-2015 Nissan Frontier V6
  • 2008-2018 Chevrolet Silverado V8
  • 2010-2020 Ford F-150 V8
  • 2006-2016 Honda Ridgeline V6

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