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What is The Electronic Control Module?
The ECM collects data from sensors across the engine and uses it to analyze the performance of the engine in real time.
Some data the ECM receives allows it to adjust fuel consumption and ignition timing.
The adjustments it makes are to achieve maximum engine efficiency, improve fuel economy, and performance.
What Does The Electronic Control Module Do?
The ECM optimizes performance and efficiency while managing safety and operational systems.
It is crucial for maintenance and troubleshooting within the engine.
It identifies and records the problem through the various diagnostic codes—which help to identify problems and prevent further damage.
The adjustments made by the ECM work to ensure that the engine is operating at the highest level.
Functions of the Electronic Control Module
Managing Engine Performance
Controls functions like fuel injection*, ignition timing*, etc.
Uses collected data to adjust said functions
Ex. Driving up hill causes a higher load and lower speed, so ECM would adjust the fuel injection and ignition timing to avoid overworking the engine or wasting fuel.
Monitoring and Controlling Emissions
Constantly monitors engine's exhaust through various sensors
If pollutant levels increase, the ECM will adjust operations like combustion timing* or fuel-air mixture* to reduce the levels.
Analyzes temperature, pressure, and chemical compositions of the exhaust gas to activate after treatment systems*
Transmission Control
Central part of efficient transmission operations
Ensures delivery of sufficient power with optimal fuel efficiency from the engine
Uses monitored data to time the most optimal gear shifts
Factors like speed, engine load, and driver input
Ex. Vehicle goes uphill, ECM detects need for more torque and delays the shifting of gears to help
Monitoring Braking System
Monitors and manages anti-lock braking system* and related brake functions
ECM detects wheel about to lock, it will modulate brake pressure to that wheel to avoid skidding and maintain control
Ensures optimal brake control and enhances safety for all conditions
Monitoring Safety Systems
Controls safety items like airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, etc.
Ex. Collision occurs, ECM determines to deploy airbags and tighten seatbelts
Controlling Vehicle Accessories
Controls accessories like power windows, climate control, entertainments systems, etc.
Ensures that all systems function and interact well with others
Ex. Engine temperature increases, ECM modifies climate control and cabin conditions for driver comfort
Facts About The Electronic Control Module
The ECM is also sometimes referred to as the Engine Control Module
When checking the diagnostics in the vehicle, if the ECM detects an issue, the check engine light will turn on.
Some newer ECMs include a memory system that dealerships can access to fix issues with programming or update specifics—similar to a software update.
As cars switch from mechanical throttle control* to electronic throttle control*, there has been an electronic sensor installed near the gas petal to evaluate throttle contact and send a signal to the engine based on it.
ECM reminds itself and the engine how to run when the vehicle is idle to avoid an uneven idle.
If the sensors can't agree on a position, the engine and transmission will go into Limp Mode, which prevents the driver from reaching high speeds and allows the vehicle to run just well enough to make it to a repair shop without leaving you stranded.
Signs That The Electronic Control Module is Malfunctioning
Trouble starting the engine
Engine misfires
Engine performance issues
Poor fuel efficiency
Frequent stalling
Power loss
Rough idling
How to Diagnose an Issue
An issue can be identified from either an inspection or a diagnosis
Inspection
Visual:
Corrosion, burnt components, loose wires, water intrusion
Wiring:
Damage, loose connections, exposed wires
Diagnoses
Scan Tool:
Connect tool to a diagnostic port to receive error codes for insight
Data Analysis:
Use Scan Tool to retrieve live data stream and look for abnormal readings
Functional Test:
Use Scan Tool to active systems controlled by ECM to check functionality
*Terms:
Fuel Injection-
Mechanical system that delivers proper amount of fuel to the engine in a precise and controlled manner
Ignition Timing-
Process by which spark plugs fire to create a spark in the combustion system
Combustion Timing-
Another word for ignition timing
Fuel Air Mixture-
Ratio of air to fuel during the combustion process that impacts the level of combustion and power output
After Treatment Systems-
Method or device to reduce harmful exhaust emissions by cleaning the gases and ensures that engines meet emission regulations
Anti-Lock Braking System-
System that regulates car in heavy breaking situations to prevent locking, maintain traction, and reduce skidding
Mechanical Throttle Control-
Mechanical link between acceleration pedal and throttle to send to the engine for interpretation
Electronic Throttle Control-
Converts position of acceleration pedal into an electric signal to send to another unit to receive the data
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