1996 Nissan Maxima knock sensor

The knock sensor responds to spark knock caused by Pre-detonation of the Air/Fuel mixture. As the flame front moves out from the spark plug ignition point, pressure waves in the chamber crash into the piston or cylinder walls resulting in a sound known as a knock or ping. This is caused by using a fuel with a low octane rating, overheating, or over advanced timing. Sometimes it can be caused by hot carbon deposits on the piston or cylinder head that raise compression. A knock sensor is comprised of Piezoelectric materials; Crystals that when impacted, generate a voltage (same idea as a BBQ ignitor). This voltage is monitored by the computer, and when an irregularity is detected, the computer corrects timing in VVT (variable valve timing) engines, or triggers a DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) in older vehicles.

when i step on the gas there is a loud knocking in my engine..this started about the same time as the knock sensor light came on..also the car has trouble picking up speed..do you think this my be related to the knock sensor?

yes, most definitely.

thank you soo much..im having the knock sensor replaced on saturday..ill let you know how the car runs afterwords.