How do I check for problems with the car's computers, the engine control unit?

While computers (also called "Engine Control Units" or ECU's) are a relatively new

addition to the world of automobiles pre-2000 models typically have none but they have now become an integral part of every modern car. As a matter of fact, insurance companies consider cars to be totaled if their ECU's gets busted. Computers in cars today do all sorts of things regulate the all wheel drive or 4x4 system, the fuel injection, airbags and many more.

Thus, a car with faulty electronics does not only consume fuel inefficiently but also exposes the passengers to a greater risk for accidents. Unfortunately, fixing a car's computer can be a very expensive endeavor. Many car manufacturers do not disclose the source code of the programs that are inside their car's computers.

Thus, it is immensely difficult for car mechanics to fix the computer problems. Hence, a car computer in its prime is an essential criterion for judging the overall health of a vehicle. But how do we know that it is indeed in good condition? Here are the most common signs of a faulty car computer.

Check Engine Light

The check engine light is a signal that should turn on as soon as the driver attempts to start the engine. This light indicates that the car's ECU has already started and is ready to assist the driver with running the car. However, there are instances where it simply won't come on.

There are many possibilities example, is a minor problem with the electrical wiring of the check engine light. However, it is equally possible that the computer is broken too. One might be willing to give the seller the benefit of the doubt, but remember that it is his or her car, not yours. Let them fix it and walk away to the car that's next on the list.

Anti-Lock Braking System

The anti-lock breaking system (ABS) controls the rate at which a car accelerates or decelerates. This has become one of the most important innovations of all time in the automobile industry, as it has drastically increased driving safety by optimizing the braking power of cars. And yes, it's controlled by computers.

One can see if the ABS works by feeling a pulsating movement when stepping on the brakes. This is basically the ABS in action as it adjusts the pressure of the brakes which fluctuate over time. Thus, when test driving a car, make sure to test it in an open, unpopulated area that will allow you to step on the brakes a lot, and see if they work well.

Emission Tests

Most cars today have a catalytic converter that breaks down harmful engine emissions into environment friendly gases. However, this device may not be able to keep up with the amount of exhaust if the fuel injection computers are broken. The ECU regulates the rate at which fuel is injected to the engine, thereby aiding the catalytic converter in controlling the amount of harmful gases that the engine emits.

If a car spews out blue or black smoke, then you should simply walk away. Moreover, a car that fails an emission test is a car that may have serious problems with its computers. Using such a car is not only environmentally irresponsible but also very expensive. Cars like these gobble up fuel at a higher rate, and their engines wear out faster because of increased carbon buildup.

There are many other symptoms of problematic ECU's and their detection is best done by a trained car mechanic because sophisticated diagnostic equipment is necessary for a comprehensive examination.

How do I check for problems with the car's computers, the engine control unit?

By: Jim Baz

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