Parts for your 2021 Toyota Rav4-Knock sensor

2021 Toyota RAV4 Knock Sensor — What It Does and When To Replace It

Yes, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 is fitted with a knock sensor. This is documented in Toyota’s New Car Features for the A25A-FKS/FXS Dynamic Force engines, the Toyota Repair Manual for 2019–2021 RAV4 which lists DTC P0325 (Knock Sensor 1 Circuit), and Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue that shows a dedicated knock sensor (e.g., 89615-12090) for 2.5-litre RAV4 variants, with similar fitment on the 2.0-litre M20A-FKS where sold. That means the knock sensor is very much relevant to the 2021 RAV4, whether petrol or hybrid.

On the RAV4, the knock sensor’s job is to “listen” for detonation (pinging) in the engine and feed that signal to the ECU. When knock is detected, the ECU tweaks spark timing to keep the engine safe and smooth, helping it run happily on everyday 91–95 RON petrol across Aussie and Kiwi conditions. It supports efficiency and performance by letting the engine run close to its ideal timing without risking damage.

It’s a low-maintenance part that typically needs no scheduled service. Replacement is usually only on fault, such as when the check engine light pops up with a knock-sensor code, or if there’s audible pinging, flat performance, rough running, or poor fuel economy that diagnosis tracks back to the sensor or its wiring. The sensor on the 2.5-litre sits bolted to the cylinder block under the intake side, so access can be a bit involved and is best left to a qualified tech.

• When to consider replacement: persistent DTC P0325, confirmed sensor signal fault, or damaged connector/harness.
• Common causes: internal sensor failure, heat/age, coolant/oil contamination, or wiring chafe.

Good practice for servicing and replacement on a 2021 RAV4 knock sensor:

• Confirm with proper diagnostics first — scan tool data and, if needed, an oscilloscope check.
• Use a genuine-quality sensor and ensure the mating surface on the block is clean.
• Install with the correct orientation and torque per the Toyota Repair Manual — overtightening or misalignment can skew readings.
• Inspect and repair the harness and connector seals, clear fault codes and carry out a road test.

Look after it with good-quality fuel, keep the engine bay tidy and dry, and address any intake or cooling issues promptly. Do that, and the RAV4’s knock control will keep doing its quiet, clever work for years.

Does the 2021 RAV4 have a knock sensor?

It does. Toyota’s New Car Features for the A25A-FKS/FXS engines and the Toyota Repair Manual listing DTC P0325 confirm a fitted knock sensor on 2021 RAV4 models. Toyota’s parts catalogue also shows the dedicated sensor for these engines.

Can you keep driving with a bad knock sensor?

It will usually still run, but it’s not wise to ignore it. The ECU may pull timing to protect the engine, which can mean reduced power and economy. If there’s real detonation and the sensor can’t report it properly, long-term engine damage is possible. Get it checked sooner rather than later.

Where is the knock sensor on a 2021 RAV4?

On the 2.5-litre Dynamic Force engine, it’s mounted to the cylinder block on the intake side, beneath the manifold area. Access generally requires removing intake components, so it’s a workshop job for most owners.