yes, it is protecting the motor from damage.
Yep.
the motor could pre-detonate or "knock" that can cause damage
If you run your rig with a bad knock sensor the computer will not be able to tell if or when your engine starts to knock (such as a rod knocking). That is if it isn't already cause the sensor is there for insurance. Make sure the sensor is bad and if so have it replaced asap. It is an expensive job cause you have to remove the intake to get to them (some engines have two under the intake). willyray3
The knock sensor retards the engine timing when there is a knock or ping detected. This will make the car a little sluggish. It is rare that the knock sensor goes bad.
Yes it can hurt your engine to drive with a bad knock sensor. The knock sensor should be replaced as soon as possible.
Yes, bad spark plugs can potentially cause a knock sensor code. Faulty spark plugs may lead to misfiring or incomplete combustion, which can create abnormal engine vibrations and noise. These conditions might trigger the knock sensor to detect false signals of engine knocking, resulting in a stored code. Thus, while bad spark plugs are not the direct cause of a knock sensor code, they can contribute to conditions that lead to its activation.
If the sensor it'self is bad then NO.
Yes, a faulty knock sensor can lead to engine misfires and vacuum problems. The knock sensor monitors engine vibrations and helps the engine control module adjust the ignition timing to prevent knocking. If the sensor malfunctions, it may cause incorrect timing adjustments, leading to misfires, poor engine performance, and potentially affecting the vacuum system due to improper combustion. Addressing a bad knock sensor can help restore optimal engine function.
The sensor is bad. A properly-functioning knock sensor allows the ECM to advance timing until it senses a knock. It then retards timing until the knock just barely goes away allowing for optimal gas mileage.
Ping.
Yes, a bad knock sensor can cause hesitation upon acceleration in a 1996 Cougar. The knock sensor monitors engine knock and sends signals to the engine control unit (ECU) to adjust timing for optimal performance. If the sensor is faulty, it may lead to inappropriate timing adjustments, resulting in poor acceleration and hesitation. However, it's important to consider other potential causes, such as fuel delivery issues or ignition problems, before concluding that the knock sensor is the sole culprit.
No, the knock sensor only retards the timing when it detects the engine pinging.