can the knock sensor malfunctioning hurt your HC as well?

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My Cars
Mercedes CLS
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VW Jetta – Worst Car I ever owned - Alot of problems

That's a trick question.
It's ( knock sensor ) job is to retard ignition timing when it " hears " knock.
If it did not work, and the timing was way too far advanced, the HC's would likely be elevated.

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2007 C 230 Sport.