Ignition Knock Sensor for the 2011-2017 Buick Regal: An Owner's Guide
If your Buick Regal has a check engine light and feels sluggish, a bad knock sensor could be the culprit.
- A bad knock sensor will trigger a check engine light and cause poor performance and fuel economy.
- For reliable performance, choose an OEM-equivalent brand like ACDelco or Delphi, or a top-tier aftermarket brand like NGK/NTK or Standard Motor Products.
- Always inspect the sensor's wiring and connector for damage before replacing the part itself, as this can be the true cause of the fault code.
- Your Regal may have one or two sensors; confirm the location and quantity before starting the repair.
Is Your Buick Regal's Knock Sensor Failing?
A failing knock sensor doesn't always make a sound. The most common sign is the check engine light on your dashboard. Your car's computer is smart enough to detect a problem with the sensor's signal and will store a trouble code, often P0325, P0326, or P0327. You might also notice your Regal feels less responsive, with sluggish acceleration and worse fuel economy. 🎬 Watch: Common symptoms of a failing knock sensor This happens because the engine's computer, unable to trust the sensor, switches to a 'safe mode' with less aggressive timing to prevent potential damage.
Pro Tip: Before you replace the sensor, carefully inspect the wiring harness and connector. On the 2.4L Ecotec engine, a loose or corroded connector pin can trigger a knock sensor code like P0325, mimicking a failed sensor. 🎬 See how to diagnose a P0325 code on the 2.4L Ecotec A simple visual check could save you time and money.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Knock Sensor
When shopping for a replacement, you'll find several brands. For a critical sensor like this, quality matters. Here’s a breakdown of available brands to help you choose.
Tier 1: OEM & OEM-Equivalent Brands
- ACDelco: As General Motors' own parts brand, ACDelco is the original equipment (OE) supplier. Choosing ACDelco guarantees a perfect fit and performance identical to the part your Regal was built with. Many professional mechanics stick to OE for sensors to avoid compatibility issues.
- Delphi: Delphi is a massive company that manufactures original parts for many carmakers, including GM. It's very common for a Delphi part and an ACDelco part to be the exact same item in a different box. If you find a Delphi sensor, you can be confident it meets or exceeds OEM standards.
Tier 2: High-Quality Aftermarket Brands
- NGK (NTK): NGK is famous for spark plugs, and their sensor division is called NTK. They have a stellar reputation for producing high-quality electronic components that are often considered as reliable as OEM parts.
- Standard Motor Products (SMP): SMP is a long-standing and respected aftermarket manufacturer. Their parts are designed to be direct-fit OE replacements and are known for their reliability.
Tier 3: Budget-Friendly Options
- Walker Products, Holstein, Facet, etc.: These brands offer a more affordable solution. While they can be a good value, they don't have the same long-term track record or OEM-supplier status as the brands above. For a sensor that plays a key role in engine protection, spending a little more for a Tier 1 or Tier 2 brand is often a wise investment.
No Recalls or TSBs Found
As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Buick or the NHTSA related to the ignition knock sensor for the 2011-2017 Buick Regal.
Cost of Replacing a Buick Regal Knock Sensor
The cost to replace a knock sensor depends heavily on the labor involved. The part itself is not very expensive. Some Regal engines may have two sensors.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $26 - $67 |
| New OEM Part (ACDelco) | $85 - $120 |
| Shop Labor | $90 - $130 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $116 - $197 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the knock sensor on a 2011-2017 Buick Regal?
The location can vary. On some models, it is screwed into the side of the engine block. On others, particularly later models, there may be two sensors located on the back of the engine, underneath the intake manifold, 🎬 Watch: Finding the knock sensor location on later Regal models which makes them much harder to access.
Can I replace the knock sensor myself?
If the sensor is located on the side of the engine block, it is a relatively easy DIY job for someone with basic tools. However, if it's located under the intake manifold, the job becomes much more complex and may be best left to a professional mechanic.
How many knock sensors does my Buick Regal have?
Some 2011-2017 Buick Regal models have one knock sensor, while others, particularly later years with the 2.0L or 2.4L engines, may have two. It is important to confirm the correct number for your specific vehicle and engine before ordering parts.
What happens if I don't replace a bad knock sensor?
Your car will continue to run in a 'safe' mode with reduced power and poor fuel economy. While the computer tries to protect the engine, it can't correct for real engine knock if the sensor is dead. Ignoring it long-term could risk engine damage if a separate mechanical problem were to cause severe detonation.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12623095 12621820 12692505
Typically a two-pin female connector. Some engines may use two identical sensors.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Buick Regal:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Buick Regal's Knock Sensor Failing?
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Knock Sensor
- Tier 1: OEM & OEM-Equivalent Brands
- Tier 2: High-Quality Aftermarket Brands
- Tier 3: Budget-Friendly Options
- No Recalls or TSBs Found
- Cost of Replacing a Buick Regal Knock Sensor
- Frequently Asked Questions
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