Parts for your 2013 Honda Cr-v-Knock sensor

2013 Honda CR‑V Knock Sensor — What it does and how to look after it

Technical sources confirm the 2013 Honda CR‑V is fitted with a knock sensor. Honda’s factory service information for the 2012–2014 CR‑V (RM series, K24Z 2.4‑litre engine) shows the knock sensor as a block‑mounted component in the PGM‑FI system, includes diagnostic routines for DTC P0325 (Knock Sensor Circuit), and provides a replacement procedure. OEM parts catalogues for the same model list a dedicated knock sensor for this engine. So yes — the 2013 CR‑V uses a knock sensor.

The knock sensor is the quiet achiever that keeps the 2.4‑litre K‑series engine happy. It “listens” for knock (also called pinging or detonation) and feeds that signal to the ECU, which then trims ignition timing to stop the rattle before it becomes damage. That clever feedback helps protect pistons and bearings, smooths out performance, and can optimise fuel economy on the 91–98 RON petrol commonly sold across Australia and New Zealand.

It’s not a scheduled service item, but it does benefit from a bit of attention when the bonnet’s up. The sensor lives on the engine block beneath the intake side, so it’s out of harm’s way, but the wiring and connector deserve an occasional glance for oil saturation, brittle insulation, or a loose plug. Keeping the cooling system healthy and the intake free of heavy carbon build‑up also reduces the conditions that cause knock in the first place.

Owners usually first hear about a crook knock sensor when the Check Engine Light pops on with a P0325 code. Other clues can include sluggish performance, flat spots, or poorer fuel use as the ECU plays it safe with retarded timing. Actual audible pinging under load may point to fuel quality or carbon rather than the sensor itself, so a proper scan and live‑data check is the go before parts are thrown at it.

• Use good‑quality fuel and stick with the recommended octane.
• If replacing, choose OEM or a known brand and fit it with the correct torque as per the Honda manual.
• Inspect the harness route and clip it back as designed to avoid vibration damage.
• After replacement, clear codes and complete a drive cycle so the ECU relearns knock characteristics.

Replacement access is typically from the top with intake bits moved, or from underneath on a hoist. It’s a straightforward job for a technician, and many DIYers manage it with patience, the right sockets, and the factory torque spec. Done right, the CR‑V’s knock sensor will quietly keep things running sweet for years.

Popular questions about the 2013 Honda CR‑V knock sensor

Where is the knock sensor on a 2013 CR‑V?
The sensor is threaded into the engine block on the intake side of the K24Z engine, roughly beneath the intake manifold. Access can be tight, many techs reach it from underneath or remove adjacent intake components to get a clean swing with a socket.

What are the symptoms of a failing knock sensor?
Common signs are a Check Engine Light with code P0325, reduced power, and higher fuel use as the ECU dials timing back. Actual metallic “pinging” under load can still be fuel or carbon‑related, so a scan and inspection are the best way to separate sensor faults from normal knock control doing its job.

Is it safe to drive with a knock sensor fault?
Short trips are usually fine because the ECU goes conservative to protect the engine, but performance and economy will suffer. Prolonged driving with unresolved detonation causes can risk engine damage. Best bet: book it in, confirm the cause, and sort the sensor or wiring sooner rather than later.