P0331 OBD II Trouble Code Knock Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 2) High Voltage

Detailed information on diagnosing and repairing a P0331 DTC code which has to do with high voltage or range performance problem on the bank 2 knock sensor circuit.

Symptoms of P0331 OBD II Trouble Code

  • MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) illumination
  • Audible knocking from the engine compartment
  • Pinging from engine under acceleration

Common Causes of P0331 OBD II Trouble Code

  • Knock sensor (KS) connector is damaged
  • Knock sensor circuit is open or shorted to ground
  • Knock sensor circuit is shorted to voltage
  • Knock sensor has failed
  • Moisture in knock sensor connectors
  • Incorrect fuel octane
  • PCM has failed

Severity of P0331 OBD II Trouble Code

If the PCM determines that the knock is out of the ordinary or that the noise level is abnormally high, P0331 may set. If the PCM senses that the knock is severe and cannot be eliminated by retarding the spark timing, P0331 may set. Keep in mind that knock sensors cannot distinguish between a knock from pre-detonation or one from engine problems. Bank 2 is the side of the engine that doesn't contain cylinder #1.