How to Disable Electronic Spark Control

The electronic spark control module is a diagnostic module inside the engine compartment of your car or truck that receives and deciphers signals from the knock sensors, which are special sensors used to listen to the engine and determine if any knocking it hears is due to engine trouble or simple engine noise. Engine knock, or detonation, is when the air and fuel mix inside your engine's cylinders ignite prematurely. Knock sensors and the ESC module are important pieces of your vehicle. However, they can be disabled if the need ever arises. When a knock sensor goes bad, it makes a horrible pinging sound. The ESC system con be disabled temporarily until the knock sensor can be changed out.

Instructions

1

Pop the hood of the vehicle and remove its negative battery cable with a socket set.

2

Consult the owner's manual of your vehicle to pinpoint the exact location of the knock sensors and the ESC module in your vehicle. Typically, the knock sensor is installed on the side of the engine block. Wires run from the knock sensor wiring harness to the ESC module, which is sometimes mounted near the front bumper or front wheel well. Again, check your manual if you cannot find the module on your own.

3

Disconnect the plastic wiring harness that attaches to the ESC module. Do this by pinching in the two tabs and pulling the wiring harness out.

4

Replace the negative battery cable with the socket set.