Each new car consists of many sensors, and many components are controlled in real time; data are collected and then sent to the engine controller. It is a module that supervises the operation of the engine, especially the revolutions; it receives information about the temperature, exhaust composition, and additionally controls such solutions as ARS or ESP. An important task of the engine controller is to supervise the mixture burned in the engine chamber.

What is the function of the engine controller?

The right amount of fuel and air must be introduced into the engine compartment so that the combustion process can properly drive the pistons. The engine then transfers power to the wheels so that the car can move. Depending on the revs, the speed and the position of the accelerator pedal or the gear stick, the mixture must be adjusted in the right way to ensure the right performance and acceleration. The combustion of the mixture is controlled by the engine controller, which also manages the ignition timing and supervises the fuel injection. It collects information from the lambda probe, camshaft position sensor and coolant temperature sensor.

If any abnormalities occur in the engine controller, you may notice a decrease in power or injection malfunction; it can often be power surges. This will be the result of preparing the wrong mixture. If you notice any irregularities, they will often be communicated on the dashboard, and you should have the car inspected. If the problem is with the engine controller, then it should be repaired or replaced. An engine controller has many electronic parts and therefore the repair can be quite expensive; you may also have problems finding a specialist who will be able to properly repair the fault. It often turns out that repairing the engine controller is not cost-effective because the cost can be very high; instead, you can use an original controller that has been remanufactured by a specialist workshop.

In the case of many vehicle models, a remanufactured engine controller costs from 300 to 400 zloty, which may be a lower amount than using the services of a specialist who would have to diagnose the problem and skilfully repair the damaged circuit board. Remanufactured engine controllers can be purchased on Engine controller remanufacturing – is it worthwhile, models for car makes can be found there.