Glossary / General

knock sensor

9 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

A knock sensor helps the engine run smoothly by listening for unusual sounds that could mean something is wrong. If it hears these sounds, it can change how the engine works to save fuel and avoid damage.

Technical Definition

A knock sensor is a device in an engine that detects vibrations caused by engine knocking or pinging. When it senses these vibrations, it can adjust the engine's timing to prevent damage and optimize performance, which can also influence fuel efficiency.

Hear It Discussed

"If the knock sensor picks up the wrong frequency, it thinks there's a knock or thinks there's a problem and reduces the timing, which reduces your fuel mileage."
One Trillion Dollars For A Car Makers Salary? Were Happy Fixing Cars Under The Hood show 28:21

"I think in a lot of modern cars, they have a knock sensor. That's what you're trying to avoid here with the premium fuel..."
2026 Genesis GV80 Review: Its Looks Aren’t Everything America on the Road 40:24