P0325 on Kia: How to Diagnose & Fix
Knock Sensor 1 Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1)
1 Kia model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical
P0325 on Kia by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Theta II 2.4L and 2.0T GDI engines in 2011-2019 Sorentos can experience catastrophic engine seizure due to machining debris left in the crankshaft oil passages during manufacturing. Metal shavings restrict oil flow to rod and main bearings, causing premature bearing wear and eventual engine lock-up. 2012-2014 Sorentos were included in NHTSA Recall 17V-224 (Kia SC147), which covered 618,160 Optima, Sorento and Sportage vehicles in total. Under the Theta II class-action settlements Kia extended coverage for connecting-rod bearing failure (a lifetime warranty for eligible 2012-2019 GDI engines; 15 years/150,000 miles for 2011-2013 2.4L MPI Sorentos) and deployed the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software update to detect early bearing deterioration.
Common Symptoms
- Engine knocking or ticking noise that worsens over time
- Oil pressure warning light illuminated
- Metal shavings found in oil during changes
- Sudden engine stall while driving
- Excessive oil consumption (more than 1 qt per 1,000 miles)
- Check engine light with bearing-related codes
How to Fix
Check VIN eligibility for recall SC147 and the settlement extended warranty (the KSDS update is required to qualify). Have dealer perform KSDS software update to detect early bearing failure. If engine is knocking, dealer will perform oil consumption test and bearing inspection. Complete engine replacement required if bearings are scored. Dealer replaces with updated long block assembly under warranty if eligible.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Owner tips & cautions
- WarningIf you hear any knocking, stop driving immediately. Continued operation with failing bearings causes catastrophic damage that may not be covered if engine locks up completely
- TipCheck your VIN at owners.kia.com/recalls - even if past the original warranty, the extended 10yr/120k warranty applies to Theta II bearing failures
- TipUse 0W-20 full synthetic oil and change every 5,000 miles to maximize bearing life. Pennzoil Platinum or Mobil 1 are frequently recommended on KiaForums
Sources for this issue (3)
P0325 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0325 mean on a Kia?
P0325 stands for "Knock Sensor 1 Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1)." This code indicates a fault in the knock sensor 1 circuit on Bank 1. The knock sensor listens for the vibrations of detonation (pinging/spark knock) and lets the computer retard ignition timing to protect the engine. When the sensor's signal is missing, out of range, or the circuit is open/shorted, P0325 sets. With knock detection compromised, the computer may run more conservative timing, causing reduced power and slightly lower fuel economy, and the engine is less protected against damaging knock. On Kia it is documented across 1 model: Sorento.
What are the most common causes of P0325?
The most common causes of P0325 are: Failed knock sensor, Corroded or loose knock sensor connector, Damaged, open, or shorted sensor wiring, Improperly torqued or loosely mounted sensor, Moisture or corrosion in the connector, Wiring harness chafing near the engine, Faulty PCM/ECM (rare). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0325 on a Kia?
Repair costs vary widely with the root cause and Kia model; each issue on this page carries its own estimate where one is published.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.