Challenger Knock Sensor Woes: Idle and Fuel Issues

I had nearly identical symptoms with my 2007 Charger last year. Having some experience with engine diagnostics, I first noticed poor performance and significantly higher fuel consumption. The malfunction indicator stayed on constantly, and engine knock was quite noticeable during acceleration. After scanning the codes, it pointed towards knock sensor issues. Initially tried cleaning the sensor connections myself, but the problems persisted. Took it to my regular workshop where they found a damaged wire harness leading to the knock sensor. The connector had corroded, causing intermittent sensor signals. Total repair came to 95€ for replacing the wiring and cleaning the connections. While yours sounds similar, it would help to know: Have you scanned for diagnostic codes? Did the issues start suddenly or develop gradually? Does the engine knock get worse under load? What fuel grade are you using? Knowing these details would help determine if you are dealing with the same electrical connection problem or potentially something else affecting the knock sensor readings.

Thanks for sharing your experience. My car has 87091 KM and was last serviced 3 months ago. The issues developed gradually over the past few weeks. I initially noticed increased fuel consumption before the engine started showing poor performance symptoms. I have been consistently using premium grade fuel. I ran a diagnostic scan yesterday which showed code P0325, confirming the knock sensor fault. The engine knock definitely worsens under heavy acceleration and load, particularly when going uphill. The ignition timing also seems affected, as the engine occasionally hesitates before starting. My regular workshop quoted 280€ for the sensor replacement plus labor, which seemed high. Would appreciate input on whether this quote is reasonable given the symptoms and if I should have them check anything else while they are at it.

Thanks for those additional details. Your situation is remarkably similar to what I experienced with my Charger. That P0325 code combined with the performance issues definitely points to knock sensor problems, but 280€ seems steep compared to my repair costs. The gradual onset and poor performance under load matches exactly how my issues developed. However, given your symptoms are affecting ignition timing, I would strongly suggest having them check: The entire wiring harness for the knock sensor, Timing belt condition and tension, Ignition coils and spark plugs, Engine ground connections My repair was cheaper because it only needed wiring fixes. However, with your starting issues and significant engine knock during acceleration, there might be related components affected by the malfunctioning sensor. Consider asking them to break down that 280€ quote between parts and labor. For reference, the knock sensor itself typically runs 80-120€. The higher quote might include additional diagnostic time or replacement of associated parts. The premium fuel usage is good, that eliminates low octane fuel as a potential cause of the engine knock. Just ensure once repaired, they clear all diagnostic codes and verify the malfunction indicator stays off under various driving conditions.

Thanks everyone for the helpful replies. After reading your feedback, I decided to get a second opinion from another workshop. The new quote came in at 180€ including parts and labor, which seems more reasonable. They suggested first checking the wiring harness and connections before replacing the knock sensor outright. Makes sense given how the check engine light and performance issues developed gradually. They will also inspect the ignition timing and associated components while diagnosing the knock sensor problems. I have scheduled the repair for next week. Really hoping its just a wiring or connection issue like some of you experienced, rather than needing a complete sensor replacement. Will keep the forum updated on what they find and whether this resolves all the car problems I have been experiencing. I especially appreciate the advice about having them verify everything after repair. Will make sure they clear the diagnostic codes and confirm the malfunction indicator stays off during a proper test drive.