my check engine light has come on a couple of times and every time i reset it it will blink 3x slow and 4x fast i am guessing this is 0304 which would be my knock senser according to some of the posts ive seen. Just wondering if i can replace this sensor myself and how to do it and the price, you know the usual questions any newbie might have

 

http://www.skippynet.com/maxima/knocksensor.htm

 

from courtesy nissan, ~$135ish shipped, from your local dealer, ~$160...not cheap...and if you dont have small hands, not a fun install either

 

I spent $210 at the dealer for my knock sensor.

 

doh

 

one word of advice would be to follow the advice in this link to a T, lol. Make sure to get the exact socket he/she mentions. A regualr socket with a universal will probably just spin off, and start to strip the bolt. BTW, Also make sure you check the restistance of the sensor using a multimeter, as well as clean your engine grounds. When/if you do replace the sensor, clean up the engine ground where the sensor gets installed. Also, be ready for scratched hands from the head gasket. Good luck, and email me if you have any problems. i have been tinkering with mine for awhile.

 

i replaced the knock sensor on my 95 se not too long ago. i swear, when i opened the box i was like "i paid 100+ for this little pos?" its like the size of a marker cap or something, but weighs quite a bit.

as far as the task of replacing it, i used those same instructions. but be wary, on my way down, i broke a lot of plastic. its very brittle!! the clips that go on the sensor broke off, i just put some black tape around it and hope that it'll melt on nice and tight (hasn't given me any problems yet). and when you pull your hand out, make sure you aren't cut. i didnt notice until my tanktop was all full of blood. go figure. :P

 

Alternative that makes it easier: use a 3/8" 12mm socket on a universal joint with an extender - this size wont break if you need to use a lot of force to loosen the bolt. Tape the new sensor to a stiff wire like coathanger (make sure there is no tape on the underside) and tape the bolt to your socket head - don't overdo it. Use the wire to position the sensor correctly and then position and tighten the bolt with your socket extension/universal joint. The wire and the socket will pull off easily from the tape once tightened. No bloody hands. Flashlight helps immensely.

 

maxmale

 

i have the check engine light with coolant temp code, and knock sensor code, did you guys who changed your knock sensor notice a difference in performance, gas milege?

should i change both sensors or can i get away with not changing one

thanks

 

Yes you will notice (should) an increase in gas mileage. The search feature told me so

I think Jerry Rome Nissan is selling them for $120 shipped. Look in the Parts for Sale or Group Deal forums.

 

I just replaced the knock sensor last month. I kinda broke part of the plastic clip on the sensor. But I went to auto zone and brought a set of picks for $6. it comes with 4 different shapes, they look like the tools they have at a dentist office. Those picks works great on the plastic clips.

Also when trying to install the sensor back into the tight spot, try using your left hand. since most of our left hand are smaller. Good Luck