Ignition & misfire · Powertrain · generic (SAE-defined)
P0330: Knock Sensor 2 Circuit (Bank 2)
P0330 means the engine computer detected a fault in the circuit for knock sensor 2, which monitors detonation on bank 2, the side opposite cylinder 1.
Standard title per SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 · Updated 2026-11-07 · By CarWhere Research
How P0330 sets
On V-type engines with a knock sensor per bank, the powertrain control module (PCM) watches the bank 2 knock sensor circuit for opens, shorts, and an implausible signal. If the circuit or signal fails these checks, P0330 sets. Conditions and limits vary by manufacturer.
Common causes of P0330
Roughly most likely first; the actual cause depends on the vehicle and needs testing to confirm.
- Damaged or corroded wiring to the bank 2 knock sensor
- Failed bank 2 knock sensor
- Harness damage under the intake manifold
- Incorrect sensor mounting torque
- Fluid contamination in the connector
P0330 symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Reduced power
- Lower fuel economy
- Often no drivability symptoms
How P0330 is diagnosed
- Confirm the code and check whether the bank 1 knock sensor codes are also present.
- Locate the bank 2 knock sensor using service information.
- Inspect wiring and connectors for damage or contamination.
- Measure sensor resistance or signal per specification.
- Verify the sensor is torqued correctly to the block.
Typical fixes for P0330
- Repair wiring or connector damage
- Replace the bank 2 knock sensor
- Replace the knock sensor harness
- Correct mounting torque
Replace parts only after testing confirms the cause — a code names the circuit or condition that failed a check, not necessarily the faulty part. We don’t publish per-repair prices; for what households actually spend on upkeep, see car repair costs.
Related codes & warning lights
P0330 FAQ
What does code P0330 mean?
P0330 means the engine computer detected a fault in the circuit for knock sensor 2, which monitors detonation on bank 2, the side opposite cylinder 1. The standard definition is "Knock Sensor 2 Circuit (Bank 2)."
Can I drive with a P0330 code?
In most cases, yes. Timing may be retarded as a precaution, so power and economy can drop; avoid hard acceleration until the circuit is repaired.
Should both knock sensors be replaced together?
When the intake manifold must be removed to reach the sensors, many technicians replace both at once to avoid repeating the labor if the other fails later.
Which side is bank 2?
Bank 2 is the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder 1.
Will P0330 cause knocking I can hear?
Usually not. The code reflects a sensor circuit problem, and the computer typically retards timing as a precaution, so audible knock is uncommon unless fuel quality or overheating is also an issue.
Keep researching
Engine guides by brand (known issues, specs)
More ignition & misfire codes
Sources
- SAE J2012 — Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions (standard code titles)
- ISO 15031-6 — Road vehicles: communication between vehicle and external equipment for emissions-related diagnostics, Part 6: Diagnostic trouble code definitions
- U.S. EPA — Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs
- U.S. EPA, 40 CFR 86.1806-17 — Federal onboard diagnostics requirements for light-duty vehicles
General information written by CarWhere Research, not a diagnosis of your vehicle. Manufacturers can add their own sub-definitions and test conditions; confirm with the factory service information for your year, make and model. Before paying for a repair, check NHTSA for open recalls and your warranty booklet: federal law requires an emissions warranty on major emission-control parts such as the catalytic converter and engine computer.