Car ECU: Functions, Components, and Symptoms of Damage
With the rapid development of technology, many car manufacturers are now using electric technology. Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) has become a high-tech system that replaces the carburetor. This system has also proven to be more efficient. One of the popular systems is the car ECU.
Unfortunately, until now, there are still many drivers or car owners who do not understand and study well about Electronic Control Unit (ECU). In fact, this component plays a very important role in the car.
Curious about what components are in the ECU and what their functions are? Check out the full discussion below!
What is the Function of the Car ECU?
The car ECU is a component that serves as an electronic circuit and this component will control actuators that replace mechanical systems.
In the past, the measurement of ignition timing, fuel mixture, engine speed, and air-fuel mixture was done using mechanical systems. However, with the presence of the ECU in injection engines, all these activities can be controlled using computer processes.
Basically, the presence of the ECU in injection engines functions as a core component that can determine the amount of fuel supplied to the engine. Essentially, the computer program will receive data and operate the engine according to the required proportions.
The ECU can also determine the duration of fuel injection in the injector by determining the right time to provide the air-fuel mixture to the engine.
Read Also: 5 Components of the Fuel System in Cars and Their Functions
Car ECU Components
There are various types of components in this ECU, here are some of them:
1. TCM
Transmission Control Module or TCM is a module found in automatic transmission cars. The function of this module is to regulate the transmission shifts according to the engine RPM and the driving conditions.
2. ECM
Engine Control Module or ECM functions as the engine operation regulator. The engine operations from starting, igniting the spark plugs to cooling, are performed by this component.
3. BCM
Body Control Module or BCM is responsible for regulating the electrical system in the vehicle, ensuring that the power flow from the engine to the wheels operates efficiently. This module is found in four-wheel drive vehicles.
4. ABS Control Module
One component that should not be forgotten is the ABS Control Module. This module is used for vehicles that use a braking system and have already implemented ABS technology.
This module plays a role in preventing the tires from slipping and can regulate braking when driving on slippery roads. It can be said that this system also plays a role in safety systems.
5. Airbag Control Module
There is also an ECU component used to deploy airbags during vehicle collisions, which is the Airbag Control Module.
Read Also: How to Fix Heavy Electric Power Steering
Symptoms of Car ECU Damage
There are various signs that the ECU is damaged, including:
- The car engine is difficult to start using the starter.
- Fuel consumption becomes increasingly wasteful, even though the distance traveled is not very far.
- When driving, there are stutters, especially in the engine.
- The car feels heavier when driven, due to a reduction in engine power.
- The check engine light appears on the dashboard and is completely off.
Can a damaged car ECU be repaired? Yes, of course it can. When the car ECU component is damaged, make sure to repair or replace it with a new one as soon as possible.
As for the cost of remapping the car ECU, it depends on the extent of the ECU damage. If the damage is more severe, the cost can become more expensive.
However, if a replacement is necessary, the ECU is differentiated based on the vehicle type and its quality. The better the quality, the more expensive it will be.
However, to ensure that the service is done well, make sure to service at an official Daihatsu workshop. Your beloved car will be serviced by professional technicians so that it can function optimally again.