Spark Knock

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Mercury Villager. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: If the following test procedures fail to correct condition, it is recommended that owner change source of fuel. Water, alcohol percentage, fuel vapor pressure, and lead can be detected by performing a fuel quality test using Gas Check Tool (014-00335).

Ensure engine operates at normal operating temperature. See appropriate procedures in COOLING SYSTEM CONCERNS - ENGINE OVERHEATING or COOLING SYSTEM CONCERNS - ENGINE RUNS COLD .
Check engine mechanical condition. Check compression, camshaft, valve train components, etc. Repair as necessary. See appropriate article in ENGINES.
Check fuel delivery system. See TEST HC: FUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM under SYSTEM TESTS in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - VILLAGER article.
Check secondary ignition system. See TEST JB: IGNITION MISFIRE UNDER LOAD under SYSTEM TESTS in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - VILLAGER article.
Check Knock Sensor (KS). See TEST DG: KNOCK SENSOR under SYSTEM TESTS in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - VILLAGER article.
Check PCV system. See TEST HG: POSITIVE CRANKCASE VENTILATION SYSTEM under SYSTEM TESTS in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - VILLAGER article.
Check engine oil level and quality.
Check for intermittent faults. See INTERMITTENT PROBLEM DIAGNOSIS .