I have a 95 SE. The check engine light is not on. The car appears to be running very rich. When I pulled the old plugs, they were very black, but not from oil. I noticed on startup I get some black smoke, and there is a slight power loss at low rpm. Would a knock sensor cause these problems? I tend to think it wouldn't because if the sensor was bad, shouldn't it throw a code and kick the engine light on? Any input is greatly appreciated.

 

Check the codes and get back to us.

 

That's part of my question. If there was a code, wouldn't the light be on?

 

Change your o2 sensor.

 

Gregg, the light would NOT be always on if there is a code. Under normal use ,the plugs shouldn t be black unless you used the wrong plug type and heat range. If you have other brand than NGK plugs, that may be your problem. The on board computer would tell you where your problem is (if any) If you don t know how to check it, get a Haynes manual. It would answer many questions that you may have now and in the future. Black smoke and black plugs may be signs of a worn engine or components.