Replace the knock sensor on a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4 engine, which requires removing the intake manifold to access the sensor located on the engine block.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Knock sensor × 1 — 89615-06010 or equivalent
• Intake manifold gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cool to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes before proceeding
4. Remove engine cover by pulling upward on front clips
5. Have all replacement parts and gaskets ready before disassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove air intake components
   Disconnect the air intake tube from the throttle body. Loosen the clamp at the air filter box and remove the entire intake tube assembly. Disconnect the MAF sensor electrical connector before fully removing the tube.
2. 2

   Disconnect fuel system components
   Disconnect the fuel injector electrical connectors by pressing the release tabs. Disconnect the fuel rail pressure sensor connector. Label connections if needed for reassembly reference.
3. 3

   Remove throttle body and PCV hoses
   Disconnect the throttle body electrical connector. Remove the coolant hoses from the throttle body (have a rag ready for minor coolant spillage). Disconnect PCV hoses from the intake manifold by releasing the quick-connect fittings.
4. 4

   Remove intake manifold mounting bolts
   Remove all intake manifold mounting bolts in reverse order of tightening pattern (work from outside bolts toward center). There are 6 main mounting bolts and 2 support bracket bolts on this engine. Keep bolts organized for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Remove intake manifold
   Carefully lift the intake manifold up and away from the engine. The manifold may be stuck to the gasket, so gently work it loose if needed. Place manifold on a clean protected surface with gasket side facing up.
6. 6

   Locate and access knock sensor
   The knock sensor is located on the engine block beneath where the intake manifold was mounted, on the front side of the block between cylinders 2 and 3. Clean any debris from the area before proceeding.
7. 7

   Disconnect knock sensor electrical connector
   Press the release tab on the knock sensor electrical connector and carefully pull straight off. Do not pull on the wires themselves. Inspect connector for corrosion or damage.
8. 8

   Remove old knock sensor
   Using a 12mm socket with extension, remove the knock sensor mounting bolt. Carefully remove the knock sensor from the engine block. Note the orientation and position for proper installation of the new sensor.
9. 9

   Clean sensor mounting location
   Clean the knock sensor mounting surface on the engine block with brake cleaner and a lint-free rag. Ensure the surface is completely clean and dry. Do not use abrasive materials that could damage the mounting surface.
10. 10

    Install new knock sensor
    Install the new knock sensor in the same orientation as the original. Hand-thread the mounting bolt first to ensure proper thread engagement. Using a torque wrench, tighten the knock sensor bolt to specification. This torque is critical for sensor function.
    Torque spec

    Knock Sensor20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect knock sensor electrical connector
    Reconnect the electrical connector to the knock sensor, ensuring it clicks into place securely. Verify the connector is fully seated and the locking tab is engaged.
12. 12

    Clean gasket surfaces
    Using a plastic gasket scraper, carefully remove all old gasket material from both the intake manifold and cylinder head mating surfaces. Clean thoroughly with brake cleaner and lint-free rags. Surfaces must be completely clean and dry for proper seal.
13. 13

    Install new intake manifold gasket
    Position the new intake manifold gasket on the cylinder head. Ensure all bolt holes and ports align correctly. Do not use gasket sealer unless specified by the gasket manufacturer.
14. 14

    Reinstall intake manifold
    Carefully position the intake manifold back onto the cylinder head, ensuring the gasket stays in place. Hand-thread all mounting bolts before tightening any. Tighten bolts in a center-outward pattern to specification. Also reinstall and torque the support bracket bolts.
    Torque spec

    Mounting Bolts47 Nm (35 lb-ft)
15. 15

    Reconnect all components
    Reconnect the throttle body electrical connector and coolant hoses. Reconnect PCV hoses to intake manifold. Reconnect all fuel injector connectors and fuel rail pressure sensor. Reinstall air intake tube and connect MAF sensor. Reconnect negative battery terminal.

Reassembly

1. Tighten all fasteners to specified torque values in proper sequence
2. Double-check all electrical connections are fully seated and locked
3. Verify no tools or parts are left in engine bay
4. Reinstall engine cover by pressing down on mounting clips until they click

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (do not start) and check for warning lights. There should be no check engine light after initial self-test
• Start engine and verify smooth idle with no unusual noises or vibrations
• Check for vacuum leaks around intake manifold by listening for hissing sounds
• Use an OBD-II scanner to verify no knock sensor codes (P0325, P0326, P0327, P0328) are present
• Test drive vehicle and monitor for proper engine performance under acceleration
• Recheck for any coolant leaks at throttle body connections after engine reaches operating temperature

More procedures for this vehicle