Detonation/Spark Knock
Checks 
 | Action 
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DEFINITION: A mild to severe ping,
usually   worse under acceleration. The engine makes       sharp metallic
  knocks  that     change  with throttle opening. 
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Preliminary Checks 
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|     •  | Inspect the powertrain control module (PCM)  grounds for being
clean, tight, and in the proper   locations. Refer to  
Engine Controls Schematics 
   . |  
  
|     •  | If the scan tool readings are normal refer to supporting text
  of the Diagnostic System Check-Engine Controls and there  are    no
                 engine mechanical faults, fill the fuel tank with a  known
  high     quality fuel that meets the vehicles minimum octane requirements.
   Refer    to  
Fuel System Specifications 
.
    Road  test the vehicle and re-evaluate  the vehicles              performance. |  
  
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Fuel   System 
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|     •  | Inspect the items that can cause an engine to run lean long term
  fuel trim near 24 percent. For a lean condition, refer to  
DTC P0131 or P0151 
  . |  
  
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Ignition   System 
 | Inspect 
 the spark plugs for being the proper heat range. Refer to  
Spark Plug Inspection 
   in Engine Electrical.           
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Engine
Cooling System 
 | Inspect for obvious overheating problems: 
|     •  | Low engine coolant--Refer to 
Loss of Coolant 
  in Engine Cooling for the type and amount of
 engine    coolant to be used. |  
  
|     •  | Restricted air flow to the radiator or restricted coolant flow
  through the radiator. |  
  
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Engine
  Mechanical 
 | Inspect for the following engine mechanical problems: 
|     •  | Excessive oil in combustion chamber--Leaking valve seals.
Refer   to  
Oil Consumption Diagnosis 
       in Engine Mechanical  4.8L, 5.3L, 6.0L. |  
  
|     •  | Combustion chambers for excessive carbon buildup--Clean the
combustion   chamber by using top engine cleaner. Follow the instructions
  on the can. |  
  
|     •  | Inspect for incorrect basic engine parts. Inspect the following: |  
  
|     •  | Refer to Engine/Engine Mechanical. |  
  
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Additional  
Checks 
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