P0332: How to Diagnose & Fix — Knock Sensor 2 Circuit Low Input (Bank 2)
6 vehicles · 3 makes · $250-$7,500 repair
How to diagnose and fix P0332: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
Kia Sorento · 2011–2019
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)
GMC Sierra 1500 · 2000–2006
The 4.8L, 5.3L, and 6.0L Vortec engines used in early GMT800 Sierra trucks place the knock sensors in wells beneath the intake manifold, where water can collect and corrode the sensors or harness. Owners frequently report recurring check-engine lights, timing retard, and reduced power, especially after washing the engine bay or driving in wet conditions. GM issued service information addressing knock sensor corrosion and revised sealing practices.
Common Symptoms
- check engine light
- reduced power
- poor acceleration
- intermittent spark retard
- codes return after rain or washing
- rough running under load
How to Fix
Diagnosis involves scanning for knock sensor circuit codes, checking freeze-frame data, and inspecting the sensor wells and sub-harness under the intake for moisture or corrosion. GM bulletin 02-06-04-023 calls for replacing the corroded rear-bank knock sensor, building an RTV dam around it on the valley cover to divert water, and removing the rear intake manifold foam seal; replace the front sensor and the sub-harness too if they test bad or show corrosion.
Sources for this issue (1)
Chevrolet Suburban · 2000–2006
On Gen III Vortec V8s the two knock sensors sit in the lifter valley beneath the intake manifold, under a plastic cover. Water and debris collect in the valley and corrode the sensor connectors and wiring; the factory connectors also embrittle from heat. The result is an intermittent knock-sensor signal that sets P0327 (front sensor) and/or P0332 (rear sensor), illuminating the check engine light.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- P0327 or P0332 stored
- Occasional loss of power/timing pull
- Slight fuel economy drop
- Intermittent codes that return
How to Fix
Remove the intake manifold, replace both knock sensors (AC Delco 213-3521 / GM 12570125) AND the knock-sensor wiring harness (GM 12601822), reseal the valley cover, and add dielectric grease to the connectors. Replacing only the sensors without the harness often leaves the fault. Kits bundling both sensors, the harness, and an intake gasket set are widely sold.
Sources for this issue (1)
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 · 2000–2006
GMC Yukon XL · 2000–2006
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P0332 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 P0332 mean?
P0332 stands for "Knock Sensor 2 Circuit Low Input (Bank 2)." This code means the Engine Control Module detected a low-voltage (or low-amplitude) signal from Knock Sensor 2 on Bank 2 — the cylinder bank that does not contain cylinder 1. The knock sensor 'listens' for engine detonation (pinging) so the computer can retard ignition timing to protect the engine. P0332 sets when this sensor's signal is consistently lower than expected, suggesting the sensor, its wiring, or connection is faulty. To stay safe, the ECM may pull timing, which can slightly reduce power and fuel economy.
What are the most common causes of P0332?
The most common causes of P0332 are: Faulty knock sensor on Bank 2, Open or high-resistance wiring in the knock sensor circuit, Corroded or loose knock sensor connector, Poor ground for the knock sensor, Chafed or shorted sensor harness, Improper sensor torque/mounting (poor contact with the block), Faulty ECM/PCM knock sensor input. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0332?
Repair costs for P0332 range from $250 to $7,500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P0332?
Au7o has documented P0332 across 6 vehicle models from 3 manufacturers: Chevrolet, GMC, Kia.
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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.