OBD codes / P0327
P0327
ModerateKnock Sensor 1 Circuit Low (Bank 1)
P0327 is generally safe to drive with — the computer protects the engine by running conservative timing when it can't read the knock sensor. You may notice slightly less power and economy. Fix it at your convenience, but sooner if you hear pinging under acceleration.
What this code means
The knock sensor 'listens' for the rattle of detonation (pinging) so the computer can pull ignition timing to protect the engine. P0327 means that sensor's signal on Bank 1 is reading too low (or shorted to ground). The usual causes are a failed knock sensor or a wiring/connector problem — corrosion is common because the sensor sits in a harsh spot. With no usable knock signal, the computer runs conservative timing as a safeguard, which costs a little power and economy but keeps the engine safe.
Symptoms you might notice
- Check-engine light, often with no obvious change
- Slight loss of power or acceleration
- Minor drop in fuel economy
- Occasional pinging under load if timing isn't protected
What it costs to fix
Typical range: $150–$600 · about ~0.5–3 hrs of labor
| If the cause is… | Part | Labor |
|---|---|---|
| Knock sensor | $30–$200 | ~0.5–3 hrs |
| Wiring / connector repair | $10–$120 | ~0.5–1.5 hrs |
The sensor is inexpensive, but on many V6/V8 engines it sits under the intake manifold, so labor to reach it can be the bulk of the bill. On easy-access engines it's a cheap repair. Check the connector first — a cheap fix often hides there.
The price swings on which cause it turns out to be — so confirm the cause before paying. Diagnose P0327 for my exact vehicle →
Frequently asked
Can I drive with P0327?
Yes, generally — without a knock signal the computer plays it safe with timing, so the engine is protected, just slightly less peppy and efficient. If you hear pinging under load, get it addressed sooner.
What's the difference between P0325 and P0327?
P0325 is a general knock-sensor circuit fault; P0327 specifies the signal is too low (or shorted to ground). Both point at the sensor or its wiring and are diagnosed similarly.
Why is P0327 sometimes expensive to fix?
The sensor is cheap, but on many V6 and V8 engines it's under the intake manifold. Reaching it means removing the intake, which is most of the labor. On engines where it's accessible, it's a quick, inexpensive job.
How much does it cost to fix P0327?
It ranges by engine — cheap where the sensor is accessible, several hundred where the intake must come off. A wiring or corrosion fix is inexpensive. Check the connector before condemning the sensor.
Seeing P0327 on your car? Get a diagnosis specific to your exact year, make and model.
Diagnose P0327 for my vehicleGeneric OBD-II reference. Manufacturer-specific behavior varies — confirm with a scan tool and, for safety-related codes, a professional inspection.