Q: Where Are the Knock Sensors Located on a Dodge Nitro?
A: There are two knock sensors located underneath the intake manifold - one on the left side and one on the right side of the engine block. The sensors send voltage signals to the PCM based on the intensity of the vibrations inside the cylinders. When cylinder knock ("pinging") is detected, the PCM will respond by retarding the ignition timing for all of the cylinders. The left and right knock sensors are different. Disconnect the knock sensor electrical connector located near the rear of the left valve cover. Remove the intake manifold. Remove the knock sensor mounting bolts and remove the sensors. Thoroughly clean the bolts and bolt holes. Install the knock sensors and tighten the mounting bolts to 15 ft-lbs (20 Nm). Do not apply sealant to the bolts. It is important to properly torque the mounting bolts to ensure proper knock sensor operation and accurate ignition timing control. Installation is the reverse of removal. For 4.0L engines, the single knock sensor is located in the valley between the cylinder heads. Relieve the fuel system pressure and drain the cooling system. Disconnect the cable from the negative terminal of the battery. Remove the upper intake manifold and lower intake manifold. Disconnect the electrical connector from the knock sensor. Remove the mounting bolt and detach the sensor from the engine block. Install the sensor and tighten the knock sensor bolt to 84 in-lbs. The remainder of installation is the reverse of removal. Refill the cooling system.