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Good morning,
I diagnosed my car as having a bad knock sensor using my OBDII code reader (as well as a free diagnostic by Meineke confirming this). The question then becomes, what is the best way to access these little pains in the @$$?

I've seen suggestions to attack it from underneath, reaching up passed the oil filter (or removing the oil filter for better access). I've also seen suggestions to attack it from the top by removing the intake manifold. The bottom seems less direct and more of a pain for maneuvering/reaching... but I'm clueless about the manifold and how to remove that. I'm still new to DIY engine repairs, so if you're going to suggest removing the manifold is easier, please link a picture of what I'd be removing. I think my engine runs on magic, after all.
If I attack the knock sensor by removing the manifold, will I be damaging any gaskets or other parts that I'd have to replace when I put the manifold back? Do I need to temporarily remove and pipes, hoses, wires, etc? If so, what risk is there that I'll damage something really important?
Any and all input is greatly appreciated!! Thanks!

 
Rep Power: 210

well..........

whats easier to remove and replace?

your oil filter? or your intake manifold?

take the path of least resistance

 
Rep Power: 518

What if it's just the wire unplugged or chewed off by a rodent?

 
Rep Power: 150

I'd go underneath, the oil filter route, FWIW.

 
Rep Power: 0

I couldn't know this for sure, so I took it to a shop for diagnostics, as well. They measured proper 3.5v to the sensor, it just wasn't sending out a proper signal. The sensor is bad.
Thanks for the input, bsmiley and mikey1. I am going to proceed with the under-route. I might try to take pictures and post them here afterwards so it could help others.... we'll see.