How to Solve Engine Knocking?
3 Answers
Solutions for engine knocking: 1. Reduce the ignition advance angle; 2. Use gasoline with the specified octane rating; 3. Clean carbon deposits from the combustion chamber; 4. If knocking occurs while climbing a hill, promptly shift to a lower gear; 5. When starting the car, do not shift into direct drive too early; 6. If knocking occurs due to excessive engine load, close the throttle slightly. Under certain conditions, the combustion in a gasoline engine can become abnormal, with the pressure curve showing high-frequency, large-amplitude fluctuations. The dp/dt value near the top dead center fluctuates sharply, reaching as high as 0.2 MPa/μs. At this point, the flame propagation speed and the shape of the flame front change drastically. This phenomenon is called detonation, and knocking is the external manifestation of detonation.
I've recently experienced engine knocking, with the engine making a pinging noise, which is quite annoying. Simply put, it could be due to poor fuel quality or ignition issues. First, check the spark plugs—if they're worn out or have excessive carbon buildup, replace them immediately; loose spark plugs can also easily cause this problem. Next, try using higher-octane gasoline. I switched to a different gas station brand, and the issue improved. Also, check if the air filter is dirty—cleaning or replacing it can improve air intake efficiency. Additionally, avoid flooring the accelerator under full load, as it can trigger knocking. If these steps don't resolve the issue, the knock sensor might be faulty, requiring a diagnostic scan tool to check for trouble codes. In short, troubleshoot from the simplest to the most complex issues to avoid road hazards. Don't ignore minor problems—regular maintenance can prevent them.
Having driven for decades, engine knocking is commonly seen in older cars or those that have been using low-quality fuel for a long time. My first step would be to switch to high-quality gasoline—high-octane fuel—to avoid violent combustion in the engine. At the same time, I’d check the ignition system: whether the spark plug gaps are accurate and if the ignition timing is too early; adjusting the timing requires tools, but you can visually inspect the spark plugs for a quick check. If the knocking persists, I’d look at whether the air filter is clogged or if the fuel injectors have carbon buildup, and try cleaning them. Engine knocking damages the engine, so I usually drive gently and avoid sudden acceleration. Finally, if the issue persists long-term, it could be due to carbon buildup in the cylinders or a sensor malfunction, and I’d recommend visiting a professional shop for a comprehensive diagnosis. Safety first—don’t just make do with temporary fixes.
