P1329 – Cylinder 5 Knock Control Limit Attained (Audi / VW)
| Code | Fault Location | Probable Cause |
|---|---|---|
| P1329 | P1329 – Cylinder 5 Knock Control Limit Attained (Audi / VW) (Buy Part On Amazon) | Knock sensor, Fuel quality, MAF sensor, Failing big end bearings |
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Manufacturer Specific Definitions for P1329
| Make | Fault Location |
|---|---|
| Audi | Knock control, cylinder 5 - control limit reached |
| Bmw | Leakage Diagnostic Pump Reed Switch Did Not Open |
| Opel | Knock control,cylinder 4 - control limit reached |
| Volvo | Engine control module (ECM), knock control detection – circuit zero-test |
| Volkswagen | Knock control, cylinder 5 - control limit reached |
Table of Contents
- What Does Code P1329 Mean?
- Where is the P1329 sensor located?
- What are the common causes of code P1329?
- Get Help with P1329
What Does Code P1329 Mean?
OBD II fault code P1329 is a manufacturer-specific code, which Audi and Volkswagen, who share their drivetrain components, define as Cylinder 5 Knock Control Limit Attained. This trouble code is set when the signal sent by the knock sensor to the PCM falls out of the predetermined range. In some cases, it can be accompanied by other knock-related codes, but it can also appear on its own.
Be aware other carmakers also use this code, with different definitions between different makes. This guide applies primarily to Volkswagen and Audi vehicles.
Where is the P1329 sensor located?
Ignition timing in modern engines is controlled by the vehicle’s Powertrain Control Module, or PCM, which adjusts it for optimum performance. When advanced, ignition timing can help get more power out of the engine and increase its overall efficiency. But too advanced ignition timing can result in pre-ignition and cause engine damage. This is why modern cars are equipped with knock sensors, which detect pre-detonation in its early stages. When this happens, the PCM retards the timing before any damage may occur.
If there is a problem with the signal coming from the knock sensor, the PCM will trigger a corresponding code. In most cases, these range from P0324 to P0334, depending on what’s causing the issue. Some manufacturers, such as Audi and Volkswagen, have additional knock-related trouble codes, with P1329 being one of them. Unlike other generic knock-related trouble codes, this one is set when the PCM gets the signal out of the predetermined range, although not being able to determine the exact cause.
Although not limited to them, the P1329 trouble code commonly occurs on vehicles with 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engines. These are equipped with two knock sensors, both of which are fitted underneath the exhaust manifold. Among them, the one potentially causing the P1329 trouble code is located closer to the transmission side of the engine. Both knock sensors can be accessed from underneath the vehicle once the axle and heat shields are removed.
What are the common causes of code P1329?
In general, issues with the knock sensor’s signal range from malfunctioning sensors to loose and corroded connectors or damaged wiring. These potential causes are similar for all cars, regardless of make or model, and are well documented in our articles about generic knock-sensor-related trouble codes. With that in mind, we’ll focus here only on those specific issues that may trigger the P1329 trouble code.
Incorrectly tightened knock sensor
To function correctly, knock sensors must be tightened to precisely 20 Nm. Anything other than that may cause interference with its signal, which the PCM interprets as a pre-ignition. This usually happens if the knock sensor has been replaced recently.
Low fuel quality
Low-quality gasoline can cause sporadic and unexpected pre-ignition, especially under heavy loads. This happens because such fuel usually has a lower octane value, making it more prone to self-detonate under compression. With that in mind, you should always fill up your Audi or Volkswagen with premium-quality gasoline.
Faulty or dirty MAF sensor
The PCM adjusts the air-fuel mixture based on the data it receives from the MAF sensor, among other things. But if the MAF is faulty or dirty, its readings will be unprecise, which results in an incorrect mixture. This can cause pre-ignition, assuming the mixture is lean. Cleaning of buildups from the MAF’s hot wire using an electric cleaner spray could solve the problem.
Failing big end bearings
A big end bearing at its initial failure stages could generate barely noticeable knocks. Sometimes, these can be picked up by the knock sensor and interpreted by the PCM by pre-ignition. While this issue is unrelated to knock sensors and their function, it may serve as an early warning sign of an imminent engine failure.
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