What is the effect of engine knock on vehicle performance?

Engine knock, also known as detonation, occurs when fuel in the combustion chamber ignites prematurely, leading to a rapid rise in pressure. This phenomenon can significantly impact vehicle performance. When knock occurs, it often leads to reduced power output because the engine management system may automatically adjust ignition timing to prevent further detonation, which can compromise engine efficiency and overall performance.

Moreover, persistent knock can result in serious engine damage, such as burned pistons, damaged rings, or even catastrophic failure of engine components. The engine's tuning parameters may be altered to try and mitigate the issue, which further contributes to a loss of power. Thus, recognizing that engine knock leads to reduced power and potential damage is key to understanding its detrimental effects on vehicle performance.