Powertrain, generic · Ignition system or misfire

P032E Knock/Combustion Vibration Sensor C Circuit Intermittent

Check engine lightOn
EmissionsRelevant
Drive cycleNot required
Limp modeNo

The knock sensor is a piezoelectric structure-borne sound sensor bolted to the engine block; the module evaluates its signal per cylinder and retards ignition when it detects knock. Sensor C is a third sensor on engines with three or four knock sensors (documented on the McLaren 12C V8 and in Ford's 2020–23 systems). With a fault the module retards ignition across the board as protection – noticeable loss of power and higher consumption. P032E reports brief dropouts of the sensor signal – loose contacts, a wire breaking with engine movement and heat, or a loose sensor. No manufacturer document with a threshold for this code was found; GM and Ford cover such faults with their circuit codes, so the description follows CARB's input monitoring requirement.

Likely causes

Loose contact, spread pins or corrosion in the connector
Wire chafing only with engine movement or heat
Sensor loose or wrongly torqued
Sensor or engine module faulty

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Loss of power, sluggish response from ignition retard
  • Higher fuel consumption

Repair estimate

DifficultyMediumDIY possible
Parts and labour€0–400
Time0.5–4 h

Typical range across vehicles; the real cost depends on what the testing finds.

Parts involved

knock sensor cknock sensor wiringengine control module

Related codes

P032AP032BP032CP033EP0324

References: law.cornell.edu, bosch-mobility.com.