AutoCodesGMC – P0327 2016 GMC Sierra

P0327 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Knock Sensor Circuit Low Voltage 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
P0327 2016 GMC Sierra indicates Knock Sensor Circuit Low Voltage 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 477
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 P0327 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 from the Knock Sensor Bank 1 is short to ground for greater than 5s.
OBDII Code P0327 2016 GMC Sierra - Knock Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Bank 1 - AutoCodes.com
P0327 2016 GMC Sierra Code - Knock Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Bank 1

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0327 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 P0327 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 P0327 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 P0327 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 P0327 2016 GMC Sierra Code

1. What does OBDII code P0327 mean on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

P0327 indicates that the Knock Sensor Circuit on Bank 1 is experiencing low voltage, meaning the sensor isn't detecting engine vibrations properly.

2. What are the symptoms of code P0327 on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

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

3. What causes the P0327 code to appear on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Potential causes include a faulty knock sensor, damaged sensor wiring, corroded connections, or even an issue with the PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

4. Can I drive my 2016 GMC Sierra with a P0327 code?

It is possible to drive, but it’s not recommended. Ignoring the issue can lead to engine damage from knocking or pinging, which the knock sensor is designed to prevent.

5. How do I fix the P0327 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Fixes may include replacing the knock sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connections, or reprogramming/updating the PCM if needed.

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

The knock sensor for Bank 1 is typically located on the engine block, cylinder head, or intake manifold near the first cylinder.

7. How much does it cost to repair a P0327 code on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

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

8. Can a bad knock sensor cause engine damage on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

Yes, if the knock sensor fails to detect engine knocking, it can lead to severe damage over time due to uncontrolled combustion.

9. What tools do I need to diagnose code P0327 on a 2016 GMC Sierra?

You’ll need an OBDII scanner, a multimeter to test the sensor’s wiring, and possibly a socket set to access and remove the knock sensor.

10. How can I prevent the P0327 code from recurring on my 2016 GMC Sierra?

Regular maintenance, including checking sensor connections, inspecting wiring, and ensuring proper engine tuning, can help prevent future knock sensor issues.

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