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Knock Sensors

Discussion in '3rd Gen 4Runners (1996-2002)' started by Koreyth03, Jun 11, 2025.

  1. Jun 11, 2025 at 8:08 AM
    #1
    Koreyth03

    Koreyth03 [OP] New Member

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    Korey
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    Hello, I'm new to the forum and had a question for you 4 runner experts out there. I've got a 99 4 runner that has codes for knock sensors, I don't have a fancy OBD tool so as of now, I don't believe there are any other fault codes. I bought it as a project car on market place for $850 bucks with the knowledge that it needed an alternator, I replace the alternator and now there is hesitation when pressing the gas and uneven power delivery. I am in no means a mechanical but I am a YouTube DIY warrior and don't have a lot to loose with the car if I mess something up, I've seen a video on YouTube with the exact same symptoms and the same codes and they said replacing the knock sensors fixed it. But with that being said I'm finding a lot of confliction information on part numbers and things to do when changing the knock sensor, I'm trying to order Toyota genuine parts because I've read if you go aftermarket they can cause issues. Does anyone know the official part numbers I will need to do the repair? When I put in certain part numbers on the website it states that it may not fit the selected vehicle and I'm not sure what updates they've don't to the engine over the years, so I want to ensure they fit and that I don't buy the wrong part as I assume they're a bitch to return. I know I need the knock sensors plenum gasket, and exhaust manifold gasket. I've also heard that I maybe should replace the harness while I'm there, so if anyone has any recommendations with that I'd also love suggestions. Is there anything else I should do while attempting this repair for longevity's sake (if you do recommend something a YT video with walk through steps would be very appreciated )
     
  2. Jun 11, 2025 at 11:28 AM
    #2
    roboturner

    roboturner Dead Eyed

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  3. Jun 11, 2025 at 12:02 PM
    #3
    Koreyth03

    Koreyth03 [OP] New Member

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    Thank you so much for the comment and information. I do have the 6cly. yes. I knew I was going to need more gasket's but I'm just not sure of all the part numbers, I just don't want to order any of the wrong things haha. And thank you for the video as well! <3 Also, do the symptoms I describe sound like knock sensors, I called a mechanic to get a quote to get them replaced and he said that it was unlikely them and I should try to buy a engine air filter and clean my MAF sensor before replacing those. Could those also be the culprit?
     
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  4. Jun 11, 2025 at 5:24 PM
    #4
    roboturner

    roboturner Dead Eyed

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    Maybe, What are the codes? Most big auto parts stores will look it up for free.

    I wouldn’t be surprised if it were knock sensors, but that is the more expensive and harder fix, so best go through the easy fixes first
     
  5. Jun 11, 2025 at 5:30 PM
    #5
    BS67

    BS67 8404 USMC Doc

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    Welcome
     
    Koreyth03[OP] likes this.
  6. Jun 12, 2025 at 5:19 AM
    #6
    Koreyth03

    Koreyth03 [OP] New Member

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    Korey
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    1999 4 Runner
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    I have a code reader and both codes were knock sensor 1 and knock sensor 2
     
  7. Jun 12, 2025 at 5:37 AM
    #7
    roboturner

    roboturner Dead Eyed

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    Ah, it’s probably actually the sensors and harness (replace both when you do the job). I’m assuming the harness as both knock sensors are coding - but just replace it all. To your mechanic’s point, you can try replacing the air filter (17801-07020) and cleaning the MAF first (use MAF cleaner) as it takes little money and time, and is good maintenance anyway. But I’d gear up to do the annoying job. Probably should plan on doing spark plugs and wires while you’re in there if it’s been awhile. That Timmy video has a good parts list.
     
    Last edited: Jun 12, 2025

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