Parts for your 2014 Toyota Hilux-Knock sensor

2014 Toyota HiLux knock sensor: which engines have it and what to know

Technical sources confirm the 2014 Toyota HiLux may or may not use a knock sensor, depending on engine. Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue (Hilux AN10/AN20 platform, 2011–2015) lists a knock sensor (commonly part no. 89615-12090) on the petrol 2TR-FE 2.7L and 1GR-FE 4.0L V6, and shows no knock sensor for the 1KD-FTV 3.0L D-4D diesel. Matching this, the Toyota Repair Manual for the 2TR-FE/1GR-FE includes DTCs P0325/P0330 for knock sensor circuits, and the Electrical Wiring Diagram for those petrol variants shows a KNK sensor circuit to the ECM. The 1KD-FTV diesel repair and wiring references list no knock sensor and no related DTC. That means most AU/NZ 2014 HiLux diesels don’t have one, petrol models do.

Because the 2014 HiLux petrol engines are fitted with a knock sensor, here’s what the part does and how it’s looked after. The knock sensor is a small, tuned microphone bolted to the block. It listens for pinging (detonation) and lets the ECU trim ignition timing on the fly to keep things smooth and protect the engine. In typical Aussie and Kiwi conditions—long climbs, hot days, variable fuel quality—it’s a quiet hero for keeping the 2TR-FE and 1GR-FE happy.

It isn’t a regular service item, but it’s worth attention during major services or when chasing drivability gremlins. Tell-tales of a crook knock sensor or wiring include:

• Check engine light with codes like P0325/P0330
• Noticeable loss of power, especially under load
• Poor fuel economy or a “flat” feel as the ECU plays it safe

When replacing, use a quality sensor and ensure the block’s mating surface is clean. Correct torque is critical—over- or under-tightening can make the sensor deaf or too chatty—so follow the Toyota spec in the repair manual (often around the low 20s N·m for these engines). Keep the harness routing and connector clips as per factory to avoid false signals from vibration. If the HiLux has been swimming or working dusty tracks, a quick look at the connector during service is smart—dry it out, check for green crusties, and refit securely.

Owners of 2014 HiLux diesels might wonder why theirs doesn’t have one. Diesel combustion is controlled by injection timing and pressure rather than a spark event, so the ECU manages noise and combustion quality with sensors like crank/cam position, MAP/MAF, fuel pressure and ECT. A petrol-style knock sensor simply isn’t required on the 1KD-FTV platform, which is why Toyota didn’t fit it.

• Does a 2014 HiLux diesel have a knock sensor?
  The 1KD-FTV 3.0L D-4D diesel used widely in 2014 HiLux models does not have a knock sensor. Toyota’s parts catalogue and wiring diagrams show no listing or circuit for a KNK sensor on that engine, and the diesel repair manual has no knock-sensor DTCs.
• Where is the knock sensor on a 2014 HiLux petrol?
  On the 2TR-FE and 1GR-FE, the knock sensor is mounted to the engine block under the intake side. Access can be tight, many techs remove intake components for room. Always refit to a clean surface and torque to spec.
• Can a bad knock sensor harm the engine?
  If it fails, the ECU usually pulls timing to protect the engine, so power drops and fuel use can rise. Left ignored, persistent detonation on a mis-detected engine could risk damage. Fixing the sensor or wiring promptly restores proper control.