Knock Sensor Error and Drivetrain Malfunction

[swilson225]

MY CAR: BMW 428i Gran Coup 2015
MILEAGE: 35,000
PROBLEM: Knock Sensor Error Code and Drivetrain Malfunction

I have been receiving drive train malfunction indicators on my dash display, and I finally ran the code reader... Error Code P0327 Knock Vibration Sensor 1, Circuit Low Bank 1 or single sensor.

Its hard to believe that this sensor has already failed.. considering the car has only 35,000 miles. The engine does not knock or ping as I can notice.. runs smooth. I was planning on new spark plugs.. thinking it was a misfire. However, the Knock Sensor code, has made me think otherwise now? I wanted to know if I should proceed with replacing the Knock Sensors because it ran this code, and if this is the #1 and best course of action. Replacing these sensors is a bigger job, so some confirmation from another source would be great?!?!!? Thanks!!!Knock.jpg

[dworthy]

A hand scanner isn't the most reliable thing as it will give you generic codes on a BMW, so take that code with a grain of salt.

So the spark plugs are a 60k km (37k miles) maintenance item, or ever second oil change, so I am sure you are at or past that already.

As a general rule of thumb, clear the code to see if it comes back. Sometimes you will get codes out of left field and once you clear them, never see them again.

[MarcoZandrini]

If the code returns and changing the plugs doesn’t rectify the issue check the wiring to the sensor. It’s item #11 in the link.

https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/sho...diagId=11_4760

Replace the sensor if the wiring looks fine. The part, made by VDO (a subsidiary of Continental), is about $31 from FCPEuro.

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products?key...SAAEgKK1fD_BwE

It doesn’t look like it’s hard to get to. Darin, can you confirm this?

[jclausen]

A lot is tnose sensors are under 7 years 70 k federal emission warranty, even if the knock sensor I don't think you would hear it ping

[dworthy]

Easy to get to? Not really as you have the starter right below it, and the intake above it. If you have big hands, will be hard to get to without removing the intake.

Yes, I would double check on the warranty for that, for it should be covered under the emission side. The way BMW may try to wiggle out of it is if you don't get the car serviced at their dealerships, or by an Indy with BMW certs.

[MarcoZandrini]

Go to www.bimrs.org to find a reputable indie shop that specializes in bimmers in your area.