Parts for your 2013 Mazda Cx-5-Knock sensor

2013 Mazda CX-5 Knock Sensor: purpose, servicing and replacement

Yes, the 2013 Mazda CX-5 is fitted with a knock sensor on its Skyactiv‑G 2.0L petrol engine (PE‑VPS). Technical sources including the Mazda CX‑5 (KE) Workshop Manual (Engine Control System, Knock Sensor section) and Mazda’s diagnostic trouble code listings confirm knock‑sensor monitoring under DTCs P0324, P0327 and P0328. Mazda’s electronic parts catalogue also lists the knock sensor for this model (commonly referenced under part family PE01‑18‑921). The sensor mounts to the cylinder block, beneath the intake side, where it can “listen” for combustion knock.

The knock sensor’s job is to pick up high‑frequency vibrations from detonation (pinging). The PCM then trims ignition timing to keep the engine safe, smooth and efficient on Aussie and Kiwi fuels, especially under load or on hot days. With a healthy sensor, drivers enjoy better drivability, reduced risk of engine damage, and reliable fuel economy without needing overly rich mixtures or conservative timing.

While it’s not a routine replacement item, the knock sensor deserves attention any time the check‑engine lamp appears with the related codes, after engine work near the intake manifold, or if there’s persistent pinging despite correct octane. An OE‑quality sensor, correctly torqued to factory spec and connected to a clean, undamaged harness, is vital—over‑tightening or poor earthing can skew readings.

• Common signs of trouble: check‑engine light (P0324/P0327/P0328), noticeable pinging under load, dull performance, or a sudden dip in fuel economy.
• Good practice: verify fuel quality, inspect the connector and loom for heat or oil damage, and confirm engine grounds before condemning the sensor.
• Replacement tips: battery disconnected, access under the intake side, route the loom away from exhaust heat, torque to the service‑manual spec, clear codes and complete a drive cycle.

Access on the 2013 CX‑5 can be a bit tight, depending on tools and technique, intake‑side component removal may be needed. A workshop will typically handle diagnosis, swap and retest in a single visit. For owners, using the recommended octane and keeping the engine bay free of oil leaks helps the sensor live an easy life.

Technical references: Mazda CX‑5 (KE) Workshop Manual, Engine Control System – Knock Sensor, Mazda diagnostic code list (P0324/P0327/P0328), Mazda parts catalogue listing for Skyactiv‑G PE‑series engines.

• Does the 2013 Mazda CX‑5 have a knock sensor?
  Yes. Mazda’s workshop manual and parts catalogue show a piezoelectric knock sensor fitted to the Skyactiv‑G 2.0L (PE‑VPS) engine, monitored by the PCM with DTCs P0324, P0327 and P0328.
• Where is the knock sensor on a 2013 CX‑5, and how hard is it to replace?
  It’s bolted to the cylinder block on the intake side, beneath the manifold area. Replacement is moderate in difficulty due to access, care with torque, harness routing and connector cleanliness is essential.
• What symptoms or fault codes point to a bad knock sensor?
  Expect a check‑engine light with P0324 (range/performance), P0327 (circuit low) or P0328 (circuit high), plus possible pinging, flat performance and poorer fuel use.