Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2012 Ford Taurus AWD V6-3.5LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Knock Sensor: Service and Repair
Knock Sensor (KS) - 3.5L
NOTE: LH cylinder head removed from art for clarity.
Removal and Installation
1. Remove the thermostat housing.
2. Remove the lower intake manifold.
3. Remove the coolant tube.
- Discard the O-ring seal.
4. Disconnect the Knock Sensor (KS) electrical connector.
5. Remove the 2 bolts and the KS (Knock Sensor).
- To install, tighten to 20 Nm (177 lb-in).
6. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
- NOTICE: Early build vehicle cooling systems are filled with Motorcraft(R) Specialty Green Engine Coolant. Late build vehicle cooling systems are filled with Motorcraft(R) Specialty Orange Engine Coolant. Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolant types degrades the corrosion protection of the coolant. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the engine or cooling system.
NOTICE: Genuine Mazda(R) Extended Life Coolant and Motorcraft(R) Specialty Green Engine Coolant are very sensitive to light. Do NOT allow these products to be exposed to ANY LIGHT for more than a day or two. Extended light exposure causes these products to degrade.
Lubricate the new O-ring seal with same type of clean engine coolant that was drained from the system.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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