My '01 Sable FFV with 100k has developed a pre-ignition "spark knock" when accelerating moderately at approx. 30 mph. I had this condtion at about 30k and the knock sensor was replaced. I have not found a code, and the car runs well otherwise.
Does anyone have any experience with this problem?
Thanks
lama1410
[/b]

I wouldn't call that "more detail", but whatever....

Have you tried using mid-grade gas? What other maintenance has been done?

 

I have cleaned MAF sensor, throttle body, plugs, pcv and standard maintenance items. Put mid grade in yesterday but I still heard the pinging.
Thanks for the reply.

 

Some cars were covered by a TSB to reflash the PCM. I'm not sure of the years. Mild pinging under load, and esp. when the ambient air temp is high, is normal for the Vulcan. Gas-only Vulcans do not have a knock sensor, but I've heard the FFV version does. I cannot confirm this.

Are you using Motorcraft plugs and wires? Have you replaced the O2 sensors? The O2 sensors are at the end of their life span at 100k miles. I've been told the FFV's do not respond well to aftermarket O2 sensors, so again, stick with Motorcraft specific to the FFV.


BTW - it's a "knock sensor"... not "anti-knock".... it doesn't sense "anti-knock".