E Pace Hybrid: Engine Knocking and Power Loss Alert

Had similar symptoms with a 2019 F Pace Hybrid. The engine tuning was off due to carbon deposits in the combustion chamber, causing irregular combustion and knock sensor activation. A thorough inspection revealed significant carbon buildup on the cylinder heads and valves. The deposits were affecting proper fuel mixture and combustion, leading to the exact symptoms described, hesitation, smoke, and reduced power output. The knock sensor was triggering due to irregular piston slap caused by these deposits. This required a complete decarbonization service. The fuel octane rating was also part of the diagnosis, running lower grade fuel can accelerate deposit formation in direct injection engines like these. The repair involved: Chemical cleaning of the combustion chamber, Fuel system service, Reset of engine timing parameters, New spark plugs, ECU adaptation reset This was a serious issue requiring immediate attention to prevent engine damage. The symptoms typically worsen over time and can lead to premature component wear if left untreated. Recommend getting it checked soon, as these symptoms match classic carbon deposit patterns in direct injection engines.

Thanks for sharing those details about the decarbonization fix. My E Pace had very similar problems with pre-ignition and knock sensor warnings. Can you share what the total repair cost was in your case? Also wondering if youve had any recurring issues since getting it fixed? Mine is due for service soon and I want to budget correctly for potential combustion chamber cleaning.

Happy to report that after the complete decarbonization service, the engine knock and pre-ignition issues were fully resolved. The total cost came to 425€, which included cleaning the combustion chamber deposits and resetting all affected systems. Have put about 15000km on the car since the repair with zero knock sensor warnings or combustion problems. The engine runs smoother than before, and power delivery is back to normal. The cylinder heads remained clean during the last inspection, suggesting the fix was permanent rather than temporary. Key to preventing future issues has been using higher grade fuel and keeping up with maintenance intervals. The mechanic mentioned that direct injection engines like ours are somewhat prone to carbon buildup, but proper fuel choice significantly reduces deposit formation in the combustion chamber. Worth noting that catching these detonation symptoms early helped avoid more expensive repairs. Would definitely recommend budgeting for a thorough cleaning during your upcoming service if youre experiencing similar symptoms.

I finally took my E Pace to get checked after seeing your detailed explanation. The mechanic confirmed it was carbon buildup causing engine knock and poor combustion. The total repair ended up at 480€ for a full decarbonization service and system reset. The cylinder heads needed serious cleaning to remove all the deposits. They also found the fuel octane I was using was too low, which made the engine tuning struggle to compensate. After switching to premium fuel and completing the service, the pre-ignition problems completely stopped. No more jerking or smoke when accelerating, and power is back to normal. The engine runs much smoother overall. Really glad I caught this before it caused major damage. Will definitely stay on top of proper fuel grade and maintenance from now on to prevent future carbon buildup issues.