Turn off all your accessories and listen for knocking/pinging. The sensor is basically an accelerometer that senses vibration. You certainly could have bad sensor/wiring, or you could be knocking.

Marvin, the commie/socialist, Stockman

 

Thanks Marvin. I recall hearing some knocking when the error code first appeared over a year ago but not anymore.

 

It is not an accelerometer. In simple terms, it is a microphone that listens for a certain frequency that engine knock emits. There are two sensors and a subharness. Generally, when you go to the trouble to pull all the required parts to fix any of the items it's best to just replace both sensors and the subharness.

You will NOT set a knock sensor code due to knocking. The knock sensor listens and retards the timing if/when it senses engine knock. You will set a knock sensor code when the computer sees a problem such as an open or short in the circuit or doesn't see the right kind of signal returning to the computer.

 

Loose connector / broken cable?

 

That is the very likely scenario. Thanks John and saneeshd.

 

It could absolutely be a broken/loose wire harness. You'll want to check all of that. However, by the time you get all the way down to where you can replace the harness (you don't want to try and repair it on a signal like this) then it's best to just replace both sensors and the harness.

 

Don't go aftermarket on the parts, either. Stick with either genuine Honda, Denso, or NTK sensors.

 

I totally agree with you. Should I change the intake manifold gaskets as Honda service manual recommends every time you work on them?

 

Thank you all for your comments.I replaced my KS and wire harness with new Honda parts. It's been almost two weeks and no more error code. My van is running fine. It was not as scary as I thought. Followed the service manual plus the YT videos by George Robies (without this fun mistakes). Found out that the KS was broken (top plastic part detached from the metal part). Note that the new KS is little bit bulkier and require a 1-1/16" deep socket whereas the old one needed 15/16" or 24mm. All KS related posting on this site was very helpful.

 

What service manual did you use? Would you mind sending me the name or a link? I really appreciate it.