Sensor on block behind oil cooler leaking, what is this? 01 VR6

[markcm2]

I'm trying to track down an oil leak on my 2001 weekender (vr6). After cleaning it up, it appears the sensor bolted to the block right behind the oil cooler is accumulating and dripping although Im not sure if it isn't maybe coming from something above that. I checked and it is tight.

What is this (knock sensor?) and is it a common leak point? I Dont see a crush washer, would I replace the sensor?

It's the 13mm right above the cooler

[gakali]

Looks like the knock sensor. It's just bolted to the outside of the block so it can't leak.

Quite likely it's a leak from the upper timing cover and/or valve cover gasket leaking down and just dripping off the knock sensor.
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[bgray]

Curious if you were able to confirm the source of the oil leak. I have the exact same situation and am trying to track it down. Per the advice of another expert, I'm planning to put some dye in the engine oil and use an ultraviolet light to see where it comes from, but wanted to check on this post.

thanks,
Brian

[Abscate]

That’s not coming from the knock sensor. Get some fake Brake clean up there, rinse it off, see how the oil comes back,
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[Rallyedude]

That is definitely a knock sensor , the bolt does not go through the block .

My guess is head gasket leaking down . Time to pull an engine!
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