what does a knock sensor on a 1992 Prelude even do? and is there a way to
 

by pass it if you don't need it?

Your Engine Knock Sensor enables your vehicle to obtain the optimum combination of timing and fuel/air mixture to generate power and efficiency and that means less wasted gas.Remember, the Knock Sensor keeps fuel from detonating in the cylinder ? exploding rather than quickly burning as it should. If not replaced a faulty Knock Sensor can quite literally cause hundreds if not thousands of dollars in damage. It shouldn't go ignored.