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P0330 — Detonation sensor 2

Detailed page for trouble code P0330.

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Code

P0330

MITSUBISHI P — Powertrain

Detonation sensor 2

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Page language: EN

Causes

  • Faulty detonation/knock sensor 2
  • Open or shorted wiring between sensor and ECM
  • Loose, corroded or damaged connector/terminal
  • Poor sensor mounting or loose sensor bolt
  • Oil contamination or physical damage to sensor
  • Bad ground or reference at engine/ECM

Symptoms

  • Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated
  • Engine may run rough or reduced power (ECM may retard timing)
  • Reduced fuel economy
  • Engine knock or pinging under load
  • Intermittent faults — code may set after start or under load

What to check

  • Retrieve freeze frame and readiness data; note conditions when code set (load, RPM, temp)
  • Visual inspection of knock sensor 2, harness and connector for damage, oil or looseness
  • Wiggle test on wiring/connectors while monitoring code or live data
  • Check for proper sensor mounting torque and clean mounting surface
  • Backprobe sensor signal and ground with oscilloscope or DVOM (AC coupling recommended)
  • Check continuity between sensor and ECM and for shorts to power/ground

Signal parameters

  • Sensor output: AC, millivolt-level pulses when engine knock occurs (near 0 V DC at idle/no knock)
  • Typical frequency content in kHz range (varies by engine); look for transient spikes during load
  • Open-circuit: no output; short to ground or power will show 0 V DC or battery voltage respectively
  • Resistance checks may be inconclusive for piezo sensors — follow manufacturer spec if available

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Read and record freeze frame and live data. Note when/where code set (RPM, load, temp).
  2. Perform visual inspection: sensor condition, wiring harness routing, connector corrosion, oil contamination, and sensor mounting torque.
  3. Clear code and road-test under conditions similar to freeze frame to confirm reproducibility.
  4. If code returns, backprobe sensor connector and monitor with oscilloscope while revving or applying load. Look for millivolt AC spikes during knock events. No spikes = sensor or open circuit.
  5. Check continuity from sensor connector to ECM pin; check for short to power or ground. Repair any damaged wiring or corroded terminals.
  6. If wiring and connectors are good but no signal, replace the detonation sensor 2. Use correct OEM-type sensor and torque to spec, ensuring clean mounting surface.
  7. After repair, clear codes and verify with test drive. If fault persists with correct sensor and wiring, test ECM input pin and grounds; consider ECU diagnostic by specialist.
  8. Safety: isolate battery if performing connector repairs, and avoid contact with hot engine components.

Likely causes

  • Damaged connector or wiring (insulation chafing, broken wire)
  • Sensor not torqued or physically loose
  • Sensor failed due to age, heat or oil contamination
  • Corroded terminal or poor ground

Fault status

⚠️ Status
Knock sensor 2 circuit malfunction — ECM detected open/short/erratic signal from detonation (knock) sensor 2.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 1.0-2.5 hours

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