AutoCodesGMC – P0325 2016 GMC Sierra

P0325 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Knock Sensor Circuit Bank 1

Quick Answer

The Knock Sensor system enables the Engine Control Module (ECM) to control the ignition timing for the best possible performance while protecting the engine from potentially damaging levels of detonation, also known as spark knock. Common causes include Faulty Knock Sensor Bank 1, Knock Sensor Bank 1 circuit poor electrical connection, Knock Sensor Bank 1 harness is open or shorted. Severity is Moderate - service should be scheduled soon. The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

What it means
P0325 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Knock Sensor Circuit Bank 1.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Knock Sensor Bank 1, Knock Sensor Bank 1 circuit poor electrical connection, Knock Sensor Bank 1 harness is open or shorted.
Severity
Moderate - service should be scheduled soon.
Can I drive?
The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.
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Code Popularity 252
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Mar 28, 2024
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Code P0325 2016 GMC Sierra Description

The Knock Sensor system enables the Engine Control Module (ECM) to control the ignition timing for the best possible performance while protecting the engine from potentially damaging levels of detonation, also known as spark knock. The knock sensor system uses one or two flat response 2-wire sensors. The sensor uses piezo-electric crystal technology that produces an AC voltage signal of varying amplitude and frequency based on the engine vibration or noise level. The amplitude and frequency are dependent upon the level of knock that the knock sensor detects. The ECM receives the knock sensor signal through two isolated signal circuits for each knock sensor.
The control module learns a minimum noise level, or background noise, at idle from the knock sensor and uses calibrated values for the rest of the RPM range. The control module uses the minimum noise level to calculate a noise channel. A normal knock sensor signal will ride within the noise channel. As engine speed and load change, the noise channel upper and lower parameters will change to accommodate the normal knock sensor signal, keeping the signal within the channel. In order to determine which cylinders are knocking, the control module only uses knock sensor signal information when each cylinder is near the Top Dead Center (TDC) of the firing stroke. If a knock is present, the signal will range outside of the noise channel.
If the control module has determined that a knock is present, it will retard the ignition timing to attempt to eliminate the knock. The control module will always try to work back to a zero-compensation level, or no spark retard. An abnormal knock sensor signal will stay outside of the noise channel or will not be present. knock sensor diagnostics are calibrated to detect faults with the knock sensor circuitry inside the control module, the knock sensor wiring, or the knock sensor voltage output. Some diagnostics are also calibrated to detect constant noise from an outside influence such as a loose/damaged component or excessive engine mechanical noise.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the signal circuit from the Knock Sensor Bank 1 is open for greater than 5s.
OBDII Code P0325 2016 GMC Sierra - Knock Sensor Circuit Bank 1 - AutoCodes.com
P0325 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Knock Sensor Circuit Bank 1

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0325 2016 GMC Sierra?

  • Faulty Knock Sensor Bank 1
  • Knock Sensor Bank 1 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Knock Sensor Bank 1 harness is open or shorted
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0325 2016 GMC Sierra?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0325 2016 GMC Sierra code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0325 2016 GMC Sierra code?

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0325 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0325 mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

P0325 indicates a malfunction in the knock sensor circuit on Bank 1, which means the engine's control module (ECM) is not receiving proper input from the knock sensor.

2. What are the symptoms of a P0325 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Common symptoms include poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, engine knocking or pinging, and the check engine light illuminating.

3. What causes a P0325 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Possible causes include a faulty knock sensor, damaged or corroded wiring, poor electrical connections, or a problem with the ECM.

4. Is it safe to drive a 2016 GMC Sierra with a P0325 code?

Driving with a P0325 code is not recommended, as it can lead to further engine damage if knocking or pinging occurs due to improper ignition timing.

5. How do you diagnose a P0325 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Diagnosis typically involves scanning for codes, inspecting the knock sensor and its wiring for damage or corrosion, and testing the sensor for proper voltage and resistance.

6. How do you fix a P0325 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repairs may include replacing the knock sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or reprogramming/updating the ECM if necessary.

7. Where is the knock sensor located on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The knock sensor for Bank 1 is typically located on or near the engine block, cylinder head, or intake manifold on the driver’s side of the engine.

8. Can a bad knock sensor cause other problems in a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Yes, a faulty knock sensor can lead to incorrect ignition timing, reduced engine power, poor fuel economy, and potential engine damage.

9. How much does it cost to fix a P0325 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Repair costs vary, but replacing a knock sensor typically ranges from $150 to $400, including parts and labor.

10. Can a P0325 code clear itself on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

The code might clear temporarily if the issue is intermittent, but it will likely return unless the underlying problem is resolved.

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