Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Asx-Knock sensor

2016 Mitsubishi ASX knock sensor — what it does and whether your ASX has one

Yes, the 2016 Mitsubishi ASX petrol models are fitted with a knock sensor, while the diesel variants aren’t designed with a conventional knock sensor. This is confirmed in Mitsubishi’s workshop literature for RVR/ASX/Outlander Sport (2013–2017, Group 13A Engine Control), which details a “Knock Sensor (KS)” input to the ECU and associated DTCs like P0325/P0328 on the petrol engines. Mitsubishi’s ASA parts catalogue also lists a knock sensor for the 2.0L 4B11 and 1.6L 4A92 petrol engines. By contrast, the diesel engine sections show no KS in the engine control diagram, as diesel combustion is managed differently and doesn’t rely on spark timing or knock sensing in the same way.

For owners of petrol ASX models, the knock sensor is a small, smart microphone bolted to the engine block that “listens” for pinging (detonation). When it hears knock, it tells the ECU to gently pull back ignition timing to protect the engine. That lets the ASX run smoothly on everyday unleaded across Aussie and Kiwi conditions, even when fuel quality varies, while maintaining decent power and economy.

It’s not a scheduled service item, but it’s worth a look if there’s a check engine light or the ASX starts to rattle under load. Common signs of a dodgy knock sensor or wiring include lacklustre acceleration, worse fuel use, or fault codes like P0325. The sensor on the 4B11 typically sits mid-block under the intake side, so it’s out of harm’s way but can be reached with the right kit.

When replacing, go for an OEM-quality sensor, fit it to a clean, dry mounting surface, and tighten to the factory torque spec—overtightening or adding sealant can upset the sensor’s readings. Route the harness exactly as per the loom clips to avoid vibration or electrical interference. A pro scan tool can confirm live knock counts and timing correction, which is handy for diagnosis before throwing parts at it.

Good fuel helps too. While the ECU will adapt, sticking with quality petrol and keeping the cooling system healthy will reduce the chance of knock in the first place. If yours is a diesel ASX, you can ignore knock sensors entirely—the engine management strategy doesn’t use one.

• Typical symptoms: pinging under load, CEL with P0325/P0328, flat performance, poor economy
• Basic care: correct torque, clean mount, intact loom routing, quality fuel

FAQs

Where is the knock sensor on a 2016 ASX?
On the petrol engines, it’s bolted to the side of the block beneath the intake manifold area, roughly mid-way up. Access usually requires removing the engine cover and working from above with a long extension. A workshop manual view makes it straightforward to spot.

Does a diesel 2016 ASX have a knock sensor?
No. The diesel ASX engines don’t use a traditional knock sensor. Diesel combustion is controlled via injection timing and pressure rather than spark, so the ECU doesn’t rely on knock detection like the petrol setup.

Can a bad knock sensor damage the engine?
Indirectly, yes. If the sensor or its wiring fails, the ECU may run extra-safe timing that hurts performance, or it might not catch detonation quickly under load. Prolonged knock can be harmful, so it’s best to fix fault codes and verify operation promptly.