Hey all,

I've been struggling with the dreaded code 52 on my 89 Pickup with 3VZE. From what I've read this can really only be 3 things-
1) Bad knock sensor
2) Short in the wiring somewhere between the sensor and ECU
3) Bad ECU
To start, I had my mechanic replace the knock sensor (came from NAPA, not sure of the manufacturer) and pigtail (toyota OEM). Still code 52. After some testing, it seems that the sensor was giving a good signal, and even with running a new wire directly to the ECU, the code 52 was still showing up. So I purchased a remanufactured ECU to see if that was the issue. Plugged in the new ECU, still code 52. If even with the new ECU I'm still getting the code, doesn't that mean the sensor or wiring has to be at fault? I'm thinking about ordering an OEM knock sensor and trying to replace everything all over again. Anyone know the proper part code for the 3vze knock sensor? It's looking like 89615-20010 but want to be 100% sure before I do this all over again.

Cheers

 

post the model number off the vin sticker on the driver's door jam and i can look it up.
something like vzn130L-XXXXXX

 

Can you check the signal at the ECU the way you did at the sensor? There are some grounds and such at various points in the system and one of them might be your culprit. Man, I live in dread that this code shows up on my truck!

 

Model number is: VZN105L-TRMDEA

 

You have the right part number. 89615-20010. Fwiw you can order from Amayama UAE for $123. They show $9 in shipping. I just ordered $300 sort of stuff from them. Usually I order from Japan, but my last order was UAE. They were fast and very good communication.

consider putting your model number in your profile info so we can always see. It’s really useful, and critical when trying to find parts

 

Thanks man. I ended up buying one on ebay from a reputable seller for $150 because I could get it here (I'm in Hawaii) in a few days. Hoping it's the real deal. Comes in one of those genuine toyota parts bags. Upon looking at various listings of the same part, it seems they all have different letters stamped in the side. Any idea what that's all about?

 

I don't know. The letters may have something to do with which plant manufactured it(for quality control)
I saw that the plastic connector that plugs into the sensor has a part number that ends in "66". but that may be just a coincidence.
If I think of it I'll ask my friend who worked in Toyota's TAS Dept for years in the Electrical section.