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hans_held6

Astra Knock Sensor Issue

My 2014 Vauxhall Astra with a gasoline engine is giving me a headache. The check engine light came on, and I've noticed a significant drop in fuel efficiency. Also, the engine seems to be idling unevenly. The diagnostic tool says the knock sensor is defective. I've checked the visible wiring and connectors, and they seem okay, but I suspect the cable or plug connection may be the culprit. Has anyone experienced something similar? What could that be? I am not sure if I can keep driving like this.

4 comment(s)

laurakaiser4

Knock sensor issues aren't the end of the world, but you gotta address 'em. Check engine light, poor mileage, rough idle... yeah, that all points to it. You say you checked the wiring – did you give it a proper wiggle while the engine's running? Sometimes it's an intermittent connection. Does the light come on immediately after you clear the code, or does it take a while?

hans_held6 (Author)

When you say 'proper wiggle', do you mean to physically manipulate the wires while the engine is running to see if anything changes? Also, the light usually reappears after about 15-20 minutes of driving after clearing the code. I hope it is really just the connector!

laurakaiser4

Yep, that's exactly what I mean by 'proper wiggle'. Sometimes the connection is so dodgy that a little movement will break the circuit and trigger the light again. But if it takes 15-20 minutes, it's probably not just a loose wire. Sounds like the sensor is on its way out. My advice? Bite the bullet and get it checked out by a professional. A faulty knock sensor can mess with your ignition timing and cause more damage in the long run. Think of it like ignoring a small leak in your roof – it'll only get worse and cost you more in the end.

hans_held6 (Author)

I took your suggestion and brought it to my local workshop. As you suspected, it was indeed the knock sensor and the connection. They replaced the sensor and fixed the plug, and now my Astra is running smoothly again. The final bill came to around 95€, which is a relief compared to what it could have been if I had ignored it. I appreciate your help!

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