Glossary / General

knock

16 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

Knock is a sound that happens when the fuel in the engine ignites too early, which can be bad for the engine. It can cause damage if it happens a lot.

Technical Definition

Knock, or engine knock, is a term used to describe an abnormal combustion process in an engine, where fuel ignites prematurely in the cylinder. This can lead to engine damage if not addressed, as it creates excessive pressure and heat.

Hear It Discussed

"...you'reinfifthgear,sixthgear,andrunningdowntheroad,andyoujustkindofbarelymashonthatacceleratorpedaljustalittlebit,andallofasudden,it'sgotaknock. [939.8s]..."
How A Community College Dyno Day Teaches Real Horsepower In Wheel Time Podcast: Your Go-To Automotive Talk Show 15:15

"and I turned the key on, [1747.7s] and the knock happened before I even got my truck started. [1752.5s] Get out."
#2635: Knock, Knock... The Best of Car Talk 29:07

"But Hyundai has got that knock that they usually develop a knock, start burning oil and eventually they can go out."
The Motor Medics Helping People to Repair Their Cars Over The Phone Under The Hood show 03:58