P0332: How to Diagnose & Fix — Knock Sensor 2 Circuit Low Input (Bank 2)
6 vehicles · 3 makes · $250-$7,500 repair
How to diagnose and fix P0332: 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.
Kia Sorento · 2011–2019
The Theta II 2.4L and 2.0T GDI engines in 2011-2019 Sorentos can experience catastrophic engine seizure due to machining debris left in the crankshaft oil passages during manufacturing. Metal shavings restrict oil flow to rod and main bearings, causing premature bearing wear and eventual engine lock-up. Over 340,000 Sorentos were included in NHTSA Recall 17V-224. Kia extended the powertrain warranty to 10 years/120,000 miles for affected vehicles and deployed the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software update to detect early bearing deterioration.
Common Symptoms
- Engine knocking or ticking noise that worsens over time
- Oil pressure warning light illuminated
- Metal shavings found in oil during changes
- Sudden engine stall while driving
- Excessive oil consumption (more than 1 qt per 1,000 miles)
- Check engine light with bearing-related codes
How to Fix
Check VIN eligibility for extended warranty (10 years/120,000 miles). Have dealer perform KSDS software update to detect early bearing failure. If engine is knocking, dealer will perform oil consumption test and bearing inspection. Complete engine replacement required if bearings are scored. Dealer replaces with updated long block assembly under warranty if eligible.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Owner tips & cautions
- WarningIf you hear any knocking, stop driving immediately. Continued operation with failing bearings causes catastrophic damage that may not be covered if engine locks up completely
- TipCheck your VIN at owners.kia.com/recalls - even if past the original warranty, the extended 10yr/120k warranty applies to Theta II bearing failures
- TipUse 0W-20 full synthetic oil and change every 5,000 miles to maximize bearing life. Pennzoil Platinum or Mobil 1 are frequently recommended on KiaForums
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)
Chevrolet Suburban · 2000–2006
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 · 2000–2006
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P0332 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 P0332 mean?
P0332 stands for "Knock Sensor 2 Circuit Low Input (Bank 2)." This code means the Engine Control Module detected a low-voltage (or low-amplitude) signal from Knock Sensor 2 on Bank 2 — the cylinder bank that does not contain cylinder 1. The knock sensor 'listens' for engine detonation (pinging) so the computer can retard ignition timing to protect the engine. P0332 sets when this sensor's signal is consistently lower than expected, suggesting the sensor, its wiring, or connection is faulty. To stay safe, the ECM may pull timing, which can slightly reduce power and fuel economy.
What are the most common causes of P0332?
The most common causes of P0332 are: Faulty knock sensor on Bank 2, Open or high-resistance wiring in the knock sensor circuit, Corroded or loose knock sensor connector, Poor ground for the knock sensor, Chafed or shorted sensor harness, Improper sensor torque/mounting (poor contact with the block), Faulty ECM/PCM knock sensor input. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0332?
Repair costs for P0332 range from $250 to $7,500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0332?
Au7o has documented P0332 across 6 vehicle models from 3 manufacturers: Chevrolet, GMC, Kia.
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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.