I put in a new clutch, now cel is on and the code reads: P0325.
This can be: 1. knock sensor 1
2. circuit malfunction
3. bank 1 or 1 sensor
The CEL remains on at all times: cold start, warm start, while engine is cold, and after it has warmed up.

So, here is a little background. Today, I finished installing a new clutch. The method I used was to tilt the engine instead of lowering it. So, when I tilted the engine, many of the sensors and wiring between the engine rear and firewall made some contact, nothing broke off but I am sure some load was put on those wiring and sensors when the engine was tilted. A visual check showed nothing evident. Another possibility is that I broke the knock sensor trying to reach the top bolt. If this is the case, should I be worried about driving it? Will it detonate? Another thing I should point out is that I have not put the "tightening" clip on the hose which connects to the side of the intake. I seal is still tight, so i doubt this is the problem. And finally, the engine bogs down when coming to a stop and the rpms drop down to 1 or 2 bars and then barely saves itself.

Otherwise, the car runs just like before and the transmission has become butter smooth. But that CEL is really annoying me. Considering it came on immediately after I changed the clutch, the knock sensor is likely the problem, but how can I verify that it is not one of the other two possible problems? Thought? Ideas? Any will be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance for the help guys.

 

If its throwing the code for the knock sensor chances are you trashed the knock sensor housing when getting to the top starter bolt.

knock sensor

This thread has some info you might find useful

 

You broke the sensor while working on the upper starter bolt. 100%

Seems 75% of DIY clutch people do the exact same thing.

 

Yeah, I think so too. Is it okay to operate the car hard (vtec sometimes)? Or do I risk something horrifying, like a detonation?

Also, is replacing the knock sensor a easy/medium/hard job? I would rate a diy clutch job HARD.

 

it is surely hard to get to. Id try from underneath.

I would drive the car lightly.

 

I have other people telling me that it is okay to drive the car. The sensor will "retard ignition timing" so "use low octane gas" until I can fix it.

I dont know who's right. I mean the knock sensor is an important "safety/preventative" measure but how many times does it affect anything in a well-running engine.

Thought?