This P0325 is the bane of my Element existence...

Mostly proud owner of a 2003 Honda Element EX AWD. Got it in 2020 from the 2nd owner with 150k on it and have been taking care of it since. A bunch of maintenance and miles have been put on it. I'm sitting at 197k miles with regular services.

Being in California I need to pass smog every 2 years.

2020 - Passed fine in order to transfer the title to me after purchasing
2021 - No CEL
2023 - Put a 'genuine Honda OEM' knock sensor from ebay in...stayed away long enough to pass smog
2025 - Bought a Delpi branded sensor immediate CEL...bought a NTK branded sensor and pigtail...CEL stayed away long enough to pass smog. Checked continuity on the other side of the OEM connected just under the intake manifold, was reading fine.

2026 - Today. Decided to bypass the OEM connector and wire directly to the other side. CEL back within 10 miles.

Each sensor was torqued properly to the 23 ft/lbs. Have installed from both the top and bottom. Both have their pros/cons. Either way you gotta remove the splash guard/undertray.

Only things left to try that I can think of are:

1. There is a break in the wire further along so the signal is never reaching the ECU.

2. Ground issue?

3. ECU Issue?

4. Buy a Knock sensor from the local Honda parts department since clearly even known brands such as Delpi/NTK aren't giving me positive results.

5. Give up

I have until June 2027 until I have to smog again and would LOVE to fix this CEL for good. Just frustrated when I see other posts go "Oh I just changed the sensor and the CEL is gone FOREVER...." and that clearly hasn't been my experience.

Besides this the car is mechanically sound and has taken me across many states and camping trips. I adore this vehicle. I've put more money in maintaining it than it cost me to buy. I am at wits end with this CEL P0325 and am tired of the mental anguish is causes me.

Thoughts/suggestions?