P2346 OBD-II Trouble Code: Cylinder #11 Above Knock Threshold

P2346 trouble code definition

Cylinder #11 Above Knock Threshold

What the P2346 code means

Code P2346 means that the engine control module (ECM) detected the cylinder #11 knocking more than the specified limits before turning on the Check Engine Light.

What causes the P2346 code?

• The engine control module (ECM) signal return from cylinder #11 knock sensor indicates the cylinder is knocking.

• The cylinder knocking could be caused from the cylinder running lean on fuel from a clogged injector or having a mechanical problem like a piston or bearing knock.

• Poor fuel or low octane levels.

What are the symptoms of the P2346 code?

• The Check Engine Light will be illuminated and the code is set in ECM memory as a fault.
• The engine fault may show up as a pinging during acceleration.
• The engine may have a knocking noise coming from the #11 cylinder.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P2346 code?

• Scans the codes and documents the code in the ECM

• Diagnoses the code as per the manufacturer's pinpoint test to verify the sensor signal

• Checks the sensor detection of knock to see when it happens in order to verify if it is mechanical or a fuel related ping in the engine

• Listens to the noise if possible to isolate the component

• Pinpoints the cause to the failed component

• Knocks on the block near the sensor to simulate a knock to test sensor

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P2346 code?

• Clearing ECM memory codes before checking the freeze frame data of the failure so the failure can be duplicated

• Failing to clear ECM codes after the P2346 codes are fixed

• Replacing the sensor when the problem has not been duplicated

How serious is the P2346 code?

• Code P2346 is an indication that the #11 cylinder has a knock and the problem could be a start of a more serious internal engine problem like a failed bearing or clogged injection system.

What repairs can fix the P2346 code?

• Replacing or cleaning the fuel injector

• Repairing the wiring or connection to the knock sensor assembly or replace the sensor if faulty

• Repairing any internal mechanical problem to the #11 cylinder that caused the knock

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P2346 code

Code P2346 can be generated from fuel that is of very low octane and just happens that cylinder #11 is the first to detect the ping from low octane fuel. The fuel should be tested.

Need help with a P2346 code?

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