Okay, before everyone tells me that it bolted to the block above/behind the starter... hear me out.

Last week I changed the starter on my 2017 AWD limited with a 2.4L. Miserable job to say the least (if you know, you know).

The day after changing the starter the CEL came on. P0325 - Knock Sensor 1 Circuit (Bank 1)

So I look into the location of the knock sensor and all I am seeing is that it is supposed to be bolted to the block above/behind the starter.

When I was doing the job I did not see (or feel - you can't see much) it there. Looking at the few photos that I took while doing the job I don't think it is there (looks like just the boss sticking out of the block) but it is not the best angle.

Over the weekend I was showing someone the misery that is that starter replacement by scanning through the YouTube video from Haynes and it is not there on that vehicle either.

I cleared the code and after a few days it has not returned... but with my luck I should be prepared when it does.

If it's not there - where is it? Can anyone tell me the alternate location?

Haynes Video still - it should be on that boss

Photo taken during my starter replacement - the aluminum boss is in the background.

Still from another video showing the sensor on the boss.

 

You're right, it's almost certainly above the starter. It's a small sensor tucked right on the block.

The code appeared because that job is so tight. You likely nicked the wire, pulled the connector loose, or damaged the sensor while wrestling the starter in and out.

The code hasn't returned because the connector may have re-seated itself. If it comes back, you'll need to check the wire and connector in that area. This is a very common issue after replacing the starter on this engine.

 

I wouldn't doubt it's common. That is a miserable starter swap (and I have done many).

Hoping that it just stays off.

I might stick an endoscope down there and check.