so explain, since the engine is supposed to have a knock sensor, and
> the computer is supposed to adjust the timing accordingly, how can
> "S*IT GAS" cause detonation???
There is a limit to how much the PCM can adjust the timing. In response to "bad" gas or other factors, the PCM will retard the timing (and in some cases adjust other parameters) to try to eliminate the pre-ignition. But it the gas to really bad, or the other factors are excessive, you can still get pre-ignition. I've had it happen myself.
Ed