Parts for your 2007 Toyota Land cruiser-Knock sensor

2007 Toyota Land Cruiser knock sensor — what it does, and when to sort it

Technical sources confirm that a knock sensor is indeed used on most 2007 Toyota Land Cruiser variants. The Toyota UZJ100 Repair Manual (2UZ‑FE V8, EM section “Knock Sensor”) and the corresponding Electrical Wiring Diagram show two knock sensor circuits feeding the ECM (often labelled KNK1/KNK2). Toyota’s EPC lists knock sensor sub‑assemblies for the 2UZ‑FE. For diesel models, it depends on the engine: the HDJ100 with 1HD‑FTE does not use a knock sensor (no listing in the engine control diagrams or repair manual), while the later VDJ200 with the 1VD‑FTV V8 diesel (launched in AU/NZ during 2007) does have knock sensor inputs shown in the Toyota EWD and sets DTCs such as P0327/P0332 when faults occur. So, for a 2007 Land Cruiser, a knock sensor is relevant and fitted on the petrol 2UZ‑FE and on the VDJ200 1VD‑FTV diesel, but not on the older 1HD‑FTE diesel.

On vehicles fitted with it, the knock sensor is the little microphone bolted to the engine block that listens for detonation (that rattly “ping” under load). The ECM uses its signal to trim ignition timing (petrol) or monitor combustion noise (on the 1VD‑FTV diesel), keeping power strong and the engine safe. When it goes out to lunch, you’ll often get a check‑engine light, lazy performance, and worse fuel economy. Common fault codes are P0325 (Bank 1) and P0330 (Bank 2).

For the 2UZ‑FE V8, there are two sensors mounted in the valley under the intake manifold. Because they live out of sight, they don’t have a routine service interval, but age, heat and a brittle sub‑loom can cause dramas. If the intake manifold is coming off for other jobs (starter motor, valley plate leaks, coolant pipes, or manifold gaskets), it’s a cracking time to renew both knock sensors and the sub‑harness with quality parts. Always torque them to spec (about 20 N·m, per the Toyota manual) on a clean, dry block face—no sealant—so they can “hear” properly.

Handy tips for owners:

• Use the recommended fuel grade from the owner’s manual to minimise knock.
• If you hear persistent pinging under the bonnet, stop thrashing it and get the fault codes scanned.
• When replacing, fit new intake gaskets, clip the loom away from heat, and clear codes with a proper scan tool.
• If only one side is faulty on a high‑kilometre rig, consider doing both sensors while access is good—less mucking about later.

Do all 2007 Land Cruisers have a knock sensor?
Most do. The petrol 2UZ‑FE and the 200 Series 1VD‑FTV V8 diesel use knock sensors. The older 100 Series 1HD‑FTE diesel does not. Checking the build plate/engine code is the quick way to know which setup is under your bonnet.

Where is the knock sensor on a 2007 Land Cruiser?
On the 2UZ‑FE V8 there are two, tucked in the block valley under the intake manifold. On the 1VD‑FTV V8 diesel there are also two sensors on the block. Access generally requires removing the intake, so plan gaskets and loom checks at the same time.

Is it safe to drive with a dodgy knock sensor?
The ECM will usually pull timing to protect the engine, so it may feel gutless and chew more fuel. Short trips to the workshop are usually fine, but don’t tow heavy or tackle long highway runs until it’s sorted.