Glossary / General

knocking

10 Episode Mentions
Too Afraid to Ask

Knocking is a problem that happens in engines when the fuel ignites too early, making a knocking noise. It can hurt the engine, so it's important to keep it from happening.

Technical Definition

Knocking, also known as detonation, is an undesirable combustion phenomenon in engines where the air-fuel mixture ignites prematurely, causing a knocking sound and potentially damaging the engine. It can occur when the compression ratio is too high for the fuel being used.

The Car Curious Weekly

Podcast highlights and car talk, delivered every week.

Help Improve This Entry

Spot an error or have a better explanation? Let us know.

Sign in to suggest an edit