P0330: How to Diagnose & Fix — Knock Sensor 2 Circuit (Bank 2)
5 vehicles · 4 makes · $150-$1,100 repair
How to diagnose and fix P0330: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
Toyota 4Runner · 1996–2002
On the 3rd-gen 4Runner's 3.4L 5VZ-FE V6, the two knock sensors sit in the engine valley beneath the upper and lower intake manifolds, and their sub-wiring harness bakes over time. The harness insulation becomes brittle and crumbles, opening the circuit and setting P0325 (knock sensor 1 circuit) and/or P0330 (knock sensor 2 circuit). The ECU then pulls timing, hurting fuel economy and power. It is a very high-demand repair topic because the fix is buried under the intake, and because the ECU is extremely sensitive to sensor signal quality.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light with P0325 and/or P0330
- Noticeably reduced fuel economy
- Slight loss of power / sluggish acceleration
- Brittle, crumbling wiring found under the intake manifold
- Code returns after aftermarket sensor install
How to Fix
Remove the upper and lower intake manifolds and replace BOTH knock sensors plus the knock-sensor sub-harness. Use OEM/Denso sensors only — aftermarket knock sensors very frequently fail to clear the code, forcing you to redo the whole labor-intensive job. Key parts: knock-sensor sub-harness Toyota 82219-34010; two Denso knock sensors (Denso 89615-series); new upper and lower intake manifold gaskets and a fresh coolant fill. Budget roughly $150-300 in genuine parts (harness + 2 sensors + gaskets), or ~$400-900 done at a shop given the intake teardown labor.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Toyota 82219-34010 5VZ-FE knock-sensor sub-harness
heat-aged valley sub-harness replaced during diagnosed knock-circuit repair Fitment/availability: 1996-2002 Toyota 4Runner 3.4L 5VZ-FE according to the retailer Fitment/availability: quantity control and purchase path live when reviewed
- Genuine Toyota/Denso 89615-12090 knock control sensor
current superseding sensor for a bank whose sensor is confirmed faulty Fitment/availability: 1996-2002 Toyota 4Runner 3.4L 5VZ-FE in the Toyota catalog; Denso manufacturer note; one sensor per listing and quantity must follow diagnosis F…
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Sources for this issue (3)
GMC Yukon XL · 2000–2006
The 4.8L, 5.3L, and 6.0L Vortec engines used in this generation commonly develop knock sensor faults because moisture collects in the valley beneath the intake manifold. Corrosion at the sensors or harness causes persistent P0327/P0332 codes, reduced spark advance, and occasional drivability complaints. This is a well-known GMT800 issue documented in GM service bulletins and owner forums.
Common Symptoms
- check engine light
- reduced power or sluggish acceleration
- poor fuel economy
- intermittent spark knock code
- recurring P0327 or P0332 after rain or washing
How to Fix
Scan for knock sensor codes, remove the intake manifold, and inspect both sensors, the sub-harness, and the rubber grommet seals. Replace both knock sensors and the harness together, clean the valley thoroughly, and reseal the sensor wells/grommets to prevent future water intrusion. Many technicians also verify no coolant leaks or cowl water leaks are contributing.
Sources for this issue (1)
GMC Sierra 1500 · 2000–2006
The 4.8L, 5.3L, and 6.0L Vortec engines used in early GMT800 Sierra trucks place the knock sensors in wells beneath the intake manifold, where water can collect and corrode the sensors or harness. Owners frequently report recurring check-engine lights, timing retard, and reduced power, especially after washing the engine bay or driving in wet conditions. GM issued service information addressing knock sensor corrosion and revised sealing practices.
Common Symptoms
- check engine light
- reduced power
- poor acceleration
- intermittent spark retard
- codes return after rain or washing
- rough running under load
How to Fix
Diagnosis involves scanning for knock sensor circuit codes, checking freeze-frame data, and inspecting the sensor wells and sub-harness under the intake for moisture or corrosion. Proper repair is replacement of both knock sensors and the harness, cleaning the valley area, and resealing the intake and sensor openings with the updated grommets/sealant procedure to prevent repeat failures.
Sources for this issue (1)
Lexus ES · 1997–2003
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 · 2000–2006
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P0330 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0330 mean?
P0330 stands for "Knock Sensor 2 Circuit (Bank 2)." This powertrain code means the engine computer detected a malfunction in the circuit for knock sensor 2, located on engine bank 2 (the cylinder bank not containing cylinder 1). The knock sensor listens for engine 'knock' or 'ping' (abnormal combustion) and lets the computer retard ignition timing to prevent engine damage. This code indicates an electrical/circuit problem with the sensor signal, not necessarily actual knocking. Drivability is often normal, but the engine may run with conservative timing, reducing power and economy and risking damage if real knock occurs.
What are the most common causes of P0330?
The most common causes of P0330 are: Faulty knock sensor on bank 2, Damaged or corroded knock sensor wiring/connector, Open or short in the knock sensor circuit, Loose or improperly torqued knock sensor, Engine ground or shielding issues affecting the signal, Faulty engine control module (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0330?
Repair costs for P0330 range from $150 to $1,100, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0330?
Au7o has documented P0330 across 5 vehicle models from 4 manufacturers: Chevrolet, GMC, Lexus, Toyota.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.