Electronic Engine Controls (3.2L): Overview

The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls the following:

• Engine fueling
• Ignition timing
• Closed loop fueling
• Knock control
• Idle speed control
• Emission control
• On Board Diagnostics
• Speed control.

The ECM controls engine fueling by providing sequential fuel injection to all cylinders. Ignition is controlled by a direct ignition system, provided by 6 plug top coils. The ECM is able to detect and correct for ignition knock on each cylinder and adjust the ignition timing for each cylinder to achieve optimum performance.

The ECM uses a torque-based strategy to generate the torque required by the driver and other vehicle control modules. The ECM uses various sensors to determine the torque required from the engine. The ECM also interfaces with other vehicle electronic control modules via the high speed Controller Area Network (CAN) bus, to obtain additional information (for example road speed from the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) module). The ECM processes these signals and decides how much torque to generate. Torque is then generated by using various actuators to supply air, fuel and spark to the engine.

The ECM also uses an electronic throttle system which comprises the electric throttle assembly and an Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensor.

The ECM also interfaces with the immobilization system to help prevent the vehicle being started without proper authorization. For additional information, refer to ANTI-THEFT - ACTIVE .