Parts for your 2022 Toyota Land cruiser-Knock sensor

2022 Toyota LandCruiser Knock Sensor — What it does and when to replace it

Technical sources confirm a knock sensor is relevant to the 2022 LandCruiser, depending on engine. Toyota’s J300 service information and OBD-II diagnostics list show the 3.5‑litre twin‑turbo V6 petrol (V35A‑FTS) uses two knock sensors (with DTCs such as P0325 and P0330), and the J300 Electrical Wiring Diagram shows KS1 and KS2 wired to the ECM. By contrast, Toyota’s diesel documentation for the 3.3‑litre V6 turbo‑diesel does not specify a conventional knock sensor, as diesel combustion management relies on different sensing and control strategies.

For petrol‑engine J300s, the knock sensor is a quiet hero under the bonnet. It listens for detonation (that metallic “ping”) and lets the ECU trim spark timing and turbo boost on the fly. That means strong performance on Aussie and Kiwi fuels of varying octane, better economy, and crucial protection for pistons and head gaskets when towing or driving in hot conditions.

It isn’t a scheduled service item, but faults do crop up with age, heat or wiring damage. Owners might notice a check engine light, dull performance, higher fuel use, or audible pinging under load. A scan will typically show P0325/P0330 on petrol models if the circuit or sensor has issues.

• Symptoms of a dodgy knock sensor (petrol V6): check engine light, reduced power, pinging under load, poor fuel economy, harsh shifting due to torque reduction.
• Common causes: cracked or oil‑soaked sub‑loom, corroded connectors, incorrect torque after previous work, or a failed sensor element.

Replacement on the V6 petrol isn’t hard for a trained tech but does involve removing the intake manifold to access the valley. Best practice is to replace sensors in pairs and inspect the sub‑loom at the same time. Use the correct torque so the sensor can “hear” properly, route the harness in the factory clips, and clear codes with a scan tool. There’s no routine cleaning, if it’s faulty, replace it. After refit, the ECU will adapt naturally—just perform a proper road test through varied loads and fuels (91–98 RON) to confirm no pinging and normal performance.

• Service tips: keep coolant and oil leaks away from the valley harness, avoid cheap no‑name sensors, and confirm engine/ECU updates are current if you’ve had repeated knock‑related codes.

FAQs

Does my 2022 LandCruiser have a knock sensor?
Petrol 3.5‑litre twin‑turbo V6 models do—there are two sensors feeding the ECU. The 3.3‑litre V6 turbo‑diesel doesn’t use a conventional knock sensor, as diesel combustion is controlled differently.

When should a knock sensor be replaced?
There’s no set interval. Replace it if diagnostics show knock‑sensor circuit faults (e.g., P0325/P0330 on petrol models), or if there’s pinging, reduced power and a check engine light. It’s wise to inspect and, if needed, replace the sub‑loom at the same time.

Is it safe to drive with a faulty knock sensor?
Short term, the ECU usually pulls timing to protect the engine, so it’ll feel sluggish and use more fuel. If true knock occurs and the sensor can’t report it, engine damage is possible under load. Best to sort it promptly.