You wont get a CEL for a knock sensor, so really they wont know whats wrong.. I sell knock sensors
The knock sensors are bolted to the block and detect detonation... However, I dont think theyre as necessary on the QX4 because it runs on regular gas anyway..... So it wouldnt be a huge performance loss like on the Q.....
The TPS is called the throttle position sensor, and is used to determine transmission shift points and injector open time.....
The TPS should be replaced, as it is vital (KS are vital as well but not as).. Talk to Joe, and it should be an easy fix...